In order to thrive in the political-, social- and health-crisis world we live in, organizations must focus and carefully plan an effective risk culture. Rick culture consists of the values and behaviors that an organization establishes. Rick decisions, especially those made as a result of political and social situations throughout the world, should be based on the organization’s values and behaviors.
Communication is one of the keys to creating an effective risk culture. The executives and leaders of the organization should communicate with all levels of employees what their current risks may be and what perceived risks exist in different countries that could ultimately affect them (Russo, 2019). Open communication offers everyone the opportunity to participate and share ideas regarding the direction the organization will take in the event of a crisis.
Effective preparation and planning on the part of the organization can mitigate the probability or actual threat of such things as loss, injury, liability, etc. After planning and preparing, training, including formally developed programs, action items, technology where appropriate and simulation drills should also be an important part of the organization’s structure. By preparing employees through emergency drills and emergency action plans, employees will not become complacent (Russo, 2019).
The adage, “inspect what you expect” is also applicable when developing an effective risk culture (Russo, 2019). It is not enough to communicate, plan and train. An organization also needs to assess the systems that have been put in place and analyze employees’ responses to training and drills.
Reference
Russo, F. (2019, December 3). Developing an effective risk culture. Retrieved April 4, 2020, from https://asiatimes.com/2019/12/developing-an-effective-risk-culture/
Erik Micallef says
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this post and it gave me a lot more to think about day to day with my own family and how we should prepare for emergencies. Recently here in Idaho I felt an earthquake for the first time as we were hit with a 6.5 magnitude. I thought my mind was playing tricks on me and I was about to faint by how much the world was moving around me and I couldn’t comprehend what was happening. However now that I’ve felt one I can assuredly know in the future when one is occurring and take the proper precautions because honestly I got up out my chair and stood there trying to rationalize the situation rather than jump immediately into action. I truly appreciate the saying “inspect what you expect”. Nicely done!
cms7206 says
Jennifer,
I believe that you hit it right on the head when you stated at the beginning that the importance of communication amongst the leadership is a key element to a succesful risk management. Also, you mentioned keeping aware of what is going on in other countries. I agree with that element, especially in today’s environment where so many people travel by air great distances regularly. It doesn’t take long for pathogens and viruses to spread on a global scale, as we are currently in the process of experiencing. There should always be a level of caution and self awareness when we are dealing with people or even items that have been imported into our day to day lives from other areas.
After having spent several years in the military, the phrase “inspect what you expect” is often used when instructing new NCO’s (non commissioned officers) on how to handle their assigned units. It is critical to maintain structure and conformity in order for all parties to be proficient in their tasks. And this would definitely apply in the case of risk management.
Great post!