Well prepared is half the battle – but many companies stumble over the same hurdles
Natural disasters, cyberattacks, power outages, supply bottlenecks or pandemics: companies are exposed to a large number of potential crises. However, the difference between a controlled crisis and an existence-threatening standstill usually lies in the quality of emergency and crisis management. Often, however, companies only recognize where the weak points lie in an emergency.
So that you don’t have to discover these vulnerabilities yourself in an emergency, we will show you the five biggest mistakes in this article – and how you can easily avoid them with clear awareness and proper preparation:
Mistake 1: Not having an up-to-date risk and threat analysis
Many companies underestimate the diversity and dynamics of today’s risks. Cyberattacks or supply chain disruptions can occur at any time, and political situations are constantly changing. If you don’t regularly analyze your risks, you will be surprised by new threats – and pay a high price in an emergency.
Tip:
Conduct a comprehensive risk and threat analysis at least once a year and adjust your plans accordingly.
Mistake 2: Unclear responsibilities in the crisis
In an emergency, every second counts. In a crisis situation, if it is unclear who is allowed to make decisions or which roles are to be filled, dangerous delays and chaos arise.
Tip:
Define clear roles, responsibilities and escalation paths – documented in writing and practiced regularly.
Mistake 3: Missing or outdated emergency and recovery plans
An outdated emergency plan is almost as useless as none at all. Technological changes, new locations or personnel changes make it necessary to update emergency plans on an ongoing basis.
Tip:
Review and update your emergency and restart plans at least once a year and after any major change in the business.
Mistake 4: No practical exercises and tests
Theory is of little help in a crisis if it has not been trained. Without regular tests and emergency drills, uncertainty remains in the team and mistakes are inevitable.
Tip:
Conduct realistic crisis drills regularly. Test not only individual measures, but entire processes under time pressure.
Mistake 5: Poor communication
In a crisis, every piece of information counts – quickly, precisely and clearly. Uncoordinated or delayed communication leads to uncertainty, rumors and loss of trust among employees, customers and partners.
Tip:
Create a clear communication plan for crisis situations: Who communicates what, to whom, and in what way? Train your team intensively on this.
Conclusion: Learning from mistakes means strengthening resilience
Crises will always remain an exceptional situation in which mistakes occur. Companies that avoid typical mistakes and learn from mistakes will get through difficult times faster, safer and with less damage.
Good preparation is not a coincidence – it is the result of clear strategies, good communication, consistent implementation and regular review.
