I wrote this post around an article in the Austin Business Journal about WP Engine, Inc., (who btw I use as my hosting provider). The article discussed how they were faced with an unexpected power outage that lasted two days. What was most impressive was the disaster playbook they already had in place for times like these. They were prepared and were able to keep the continuity in place for their some 60,000 customers across 130 countries without skipping a beat.

This article got me thinking about crisis communications. Moreover, about how many startups and small businesses don’t have a crisis communications contingency plan in place. Or worse, why it’s needed in the first place before it’s too late.

Every company must be prepared for any and all scenarios that may cause a disruption to their business or damage brand credibility. For instance, flooding, fires, server outages, viral customer complaints across social networks, disgruntled employees. Ensuring you are well-prepared allows for quick decision-making that can save your company’s reputation. Accordingly, it will also reduce downtime, minimize financial losses, and more importantly, emphasize due diligence to customers, prospects, shareholders and influencers.

Are you prepared?