It’s really quite simple.

Ask yourself: What if any of our key people got flattened by a cement truck on route back to the office from lunch?

Other than shock, denial, grief, and sadness, as well as condolences to family members, how else would the organization respond?

Whatever its size or nature may be, every organization must have a plan for immediate replacement of a key person if (heaven forbid) someone suddenly dies or is severely injured.

I agree that its people are an organization’s most valuable asset but almost all of that is between their ears and goes out the door with them.

Here’s what the “Cement Truck” contingency requires:

1. Hire only people who now possess or can soon acquire key knowledge and skills.

2. Make certain that each key person grooms at least one (preferably two) who can be an immediate (albeit temporary) replacement.

3. Insist on continuous knowledge transfers and effective delegation.

4. When so-called “indispensable” people become a bottleneck, give them one warning and put on probation. If the hoarding and clogging continue, get rid of them.

Oh yes, one more thing. Encourage everyone to drive safely.