How can you involve external partners in contingency planning?

2 Communicate your objectives and expectations

The next step to involve external partners in contingency planning is to communicate your objectives and expectations clearly and consistently. You need to establish a common understanding of the purpose, scope, and goals of your contingency plan, as well as the roles and responsibilities of each partner. You also need to set clear expectations for communication, coordination, and collaboration among partners, and address any potential issues or conflicts. To communicate your objectives and expectations, you can use various methods, such as meetings, briefings, newsletters, webinars, and social media.

3 Invite feedback and input

The third step to involve external partners in contingency planning is to invite feedback and input from them. You can benefit from the diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights of your external partners, who may have different views on the risks, impacts, and solutions. You can also leverage their knowledge, skills, and resources to enhance your contingency plan and address any gaps or weaknesses. To invite feedback and input, you can use various tools, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, workshops, and exercises.

4 Incorporate suggestions and recommendations

The fourth step to involve external partners in contingency planning is to incorporate their suggestions and recommendations into your plan. You need to show that you value and respect their contributions, and that you are willing to make changes or adjustments based on their feedback. You also need to explain how and why you incorporated or rejected their suggestions and recommendations, and provide evidence or rationale for your decisions. To incorporate suggestions and recommendations, you can use various techniques, such as document reviews, action plans, and change logs.

6 Maintain and update your plan and relationships

The sixth and final step to involve external partners in contingency planning is to maintain and update your plan and relationships. You need to ensure that your plan remains relevant and responsive to the changing environment, risks, and needs. You also need to sustain and strengthen your relationships with your external partners, and foster trust, cooperation, and mutual support. To maintain and update your plan and relationships, you can use various strategies, such as regular communication, feedback loops, recognition and appreciation, and joint training and education.