The Delicate Dance of a VIP visit

I have a few minutes before someone else runs screaming into my office looking for something, so I thought I'd write a quick blog on what's been going on.

We've got a very high level person coming this week.  Can't talk too much about it, but you read the papers. (Or would if their business model wasn't flawed.)  Anyways, here's what you need to keep in mind if you have a big VIP visit coming.

1) Keep calm.  There are three main reasons why you need to keep calm. a) Even if it's an emergency, getting excited isn't going to help. b) If you're calm, it can bring the temperature down to a reasonable level and make everyone else calm.  If that doesn't work, then c) your being calm will piss everyone else off, which can be fun in the short run, and get you a good reputation in the long run as someone that is unflappable.

2) Remember to ask before spending any money.  If you don't get permission from either Management, or the people running the show, you've just made a nice donation to the trip.  Always ask before buying something.  Even if it is someone that looks like they are in charge, check with the money men before doing anything.

3) Just because you're working the visit doesn't mean you'll actually get to meet the VIP.  Get over it quickly.

4) Don't get into a shouting match.  No one will remember anything about the trip except for when that one guy started screaming.

5) Remember to thank your employees before, during and after the event.  This is very important, as many of them are working long hours and staying away from their families.  They need to know that their work is valued.  Threats of, "If you don't, you're fired" will have one of two consequences: they'll either quit, or do just enough not to get fired.  If you tell them you appreciate them, they'll work harder for you.

Finally:

6) Leave your ego at the door.  This ain't about you.  It's about the job.  Everyone is trying to do this, so pull together.  It'll be a lot easier if you do.

Anyways, I'm back doing meetings and negotiations, so I'll try and update next week.  Hope everyone is doing well!