Tuesday, October 11, 2016

After the Storm

(0:51) As most everyone knows, the US east coast was hit by Hurricane Matthew this last week. Fortunately, it struck with less intensity then had been predicted. However, that is of little consolation to the areas that suffered severe storm damage and loss of life.

(0:44) An event of this magnitude has led to much uncertainty and concern on the part of boaters beginning their winter migration. Immediately, we began receiving communications from boaters wanting to know the state of the waterway, marinas, and anchorages to the south.

(0:38) It reminded me of the increased importance of communicating with the boating community following a major event of this nature. There are few things that are worse for a business than uncertainty on the part of your customers. In the face of uncertainty many boaters will become paralyzed and not move.

(0:30) That is why it is imperative that every marina and boatyard impacted, even tangentially, by a major weather event must come out quickly to inform boaters about the state of your facility and the waters nearby. What was the impact to you and the surrounding waterway? Which services are available and which are not? If there was no impact, make sure you let boaters know. Silence only feeds uncertainty.

(0:20) This is a time to use every available outlet to get the message out. ActiveCaptain Partners can use their Pro-Op message to update boaters about your status and to keep them updated as repairs are made.

(0:16) If you are not a Partner, you can put a review in from the marina providing information. In both cases make sure to keep your message current and update it frequently.

(0:13) Ensure you use other outlets as well. If you use Facebook or Twitter or a newsletter to communicate with boaters, make sure your message is going out there also. Place updates on your website. Use all means available.

(0:07) Yes, Hurricane Matthew could have been worse and we are glad to see him go. But we all know there are always other events coming. Should you find your marina in the path of one, stay safe, weather the storm, and when it is over communicate, communicate, communicate.

(0:02) And that's the marina minute.