In August of 2023, Hurricane Idalia’s storm surge proved to be among the highest levels recorded in my home state of Florida since 1993, triggering crippling stress for Gulf Coast residents like myself. I have dodged hurricanes for more than 20 years in the Sunshine State, but not this time — it will be more than a year before we can return and rebuild our lives and businesses. With a new year upon us and fresh outlook now exuding from tired eyes, it got me thinking about the importance of disaster planning.
Disasters come in all shapes and sizes for benefit agencies and advisers. Ever lose your biggest client to M&A activity or have a key employee pass away unexpectedly? You need a plan to keep your business going under the weight of many challenges. Your service level can’t miss a beat, competition is fierce, and your clients count on you to be there when they need you. It doesn’t matter what just hit your business.
