The "Hit By A Bus" Planner
Take a day off without missing a beat—or anything else.
FORMAT
Google Doc
TIME TO IMPLEMENT
1-2 Hours
BEST FOR
Teams wanting better days off
“Doesn’t expecting the unexpected make the unexpected expected?”
“Better to have, and not need, than to need, and not have.”
Life is full of unexpected surprises—but lapses in productivity due to vacations, holidays, emergencies, or sick days shouldn’t be one of them. The “Hit By A Bus Tool” ensures everyone can take the days off they need and deserve—without coming back to chaos.
What it Does
The "Hit by a Bus” Planner (available for free here) helps you ensure that everyone’s daily and weekly tasks are covered while they are away. It’s a fast and simple way to make sure everyone leaves the office—and their job responsibilities—in good hands.
The planner is clear and efficient, yet highly detailed. You’ll not only outline what needs to be done, when, and by whom, but you’ll also get everyone on the same page, up to speed, and ready to take action.
Handing off responsibilities is easier when nothing is left to chance or with unanswered questions. Start building your Hit by a Bus Plan now!
How to put the “Hit By A Bus” Tool to work
Before getting started with this tool, ask yourself a few simple questions:
WHO:
Think about the key players on your team. Who would you feel lost without?
Then ask yourself, who could most easily step into that role if need be?
Most importantly—make sure they know they have the bandwidth and willingness to help. It does no good to have a pinch hitter who doesn’t have time to step up to the plate.
WHAT:
What are the operational tasks that keep your business running smoothly?
Who does them and what would happen if they weren’t performed?
WHERE:
What critical resources are used and what login, passwords, and access levels are needed?
HOW:
Once you’ve identified these essential components, work with your team members to use the tool and fill in the blanks of the process behind each task to make sure nothing is missing or overlooked. Keep these documents stored on a shared drive so that anyone can access them at any time
Why Cohort members love it
It provides peace of mind. There is nothing better than knowing that the workload is covered so you and your team members can enjoy time off. Imagine not worrying about anything falling through the cracks and returning to work feeling refreshed and ready to jump back in where you left off.
It can evolve with you and your team. Writing down key responsibilities can help you and your team understand and value the roles each person plays. When the team knows how the work they do affects others—they can learn how to better support each other and improve protocol along the way.
It provides accountability. Help your team alleviate unnecessary stress for themselves and others by planning ahead for seamless transitions. Yes, this tool can work wonders with that!
An example of how much fun it is to leave the office—and know work is still getting done!
