In recent years, there has been a great deal of talk about crises and their management. A crisis is a serious and unforeseen event it can occur without any warning and is associated with situations characterized by a serious threat, uncertainty and a sense of urgency. This includes a threat to human and resources, the element of surprise, loss of control, and a short time to make a decision. The crisis is accompanied by escalating tension, an unforeseen situation, the public or international image endangered, causing damage. The crisis is characterized by the need for quick decisions and effective response. The impact can affect the products and services, an organization or stakeholder, even the financial situation of a country. In addition, it can even cost their viability. There is a feeling of insecurity and danger and all functions and rhythms are affected. There are many examples of the destruction of destinations or businesses in the tourism industry. Serious catastrophic changes have affected tourism in Greece as well. There have been crises in tourism related to terrorism, political instability, economic crisis and natural disasters. Crises in tourism are categorized as sudden and underwhelming. The crisis phases are as follows: Pre-crisis phase, situation phase, acute/peak phase, coping or impact phase, recovery or dissolution phase. It is very important to anticipate crises in order to prevent unpleasant consequences. Crisis management is a key demand of tourism businesses for a more efficient, faster and better outcome. Crisis management will be a basic factor in tourism development and the major core of the development of societies. A coordinated effort is required of all involved, immediate decision-making and implementation of the action plan. Every government agency or tourism business must be prepared to plan and manage the threat/crisis with the right people. Key elements of crisis management are forecasting and strategic planning for a possible future crisis. It is necessary to have a sense of responsibility for tourism crisis management issues. High level of care, planning and know-how are needed to successfully deal with the crisis. At the same time, the design must be accompanied by competent and trained executives with approved funds for risk management. In the absence of proper planning, developments are rapid and reactions ineffective. This is the biggest threat to the tourism industry. Crisis management is directly related to marketing planning. Tourism companies are provided with an adequate plan to deal with crises. The planning and proper preparation lead to ensuring the least negative consequences that the crisis can cause. The purpose of this research is to highlight the importance of crisis management in Greece, as it is a vital tool and can protect the tourism stakeholder/organization, even the country if the process is properly implemented. Every business must have a crisis plan in place and be properly prepared. An integrated crisis management system with constantly well-trained staff is capable of dealing effectively and dynamically with accidents or disasters in tourism. |
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