Crises are very stressful. They can be emotional, sometimes devastating events. And they can happen at any time with little, if any, notice.
In these days of instant news, “citizen” journalists, digital cameras and smart phones capable of instantly posting high-definition video on the Internet, every minute counts. Yet, unless you’re an expert in crisis communications, you will likely find it difficult to think strategically when your heart is racing and the TV camera is focused on your face. It’s far better to plan a strategy in advance and be prepared to communicate proactively. Here’s how we can help you prepare for the worst.
A Crisis Communication Plan addresses the following: who will say what to whom, and how. This plan is designed to complement the Business Continuity Plan or Incident Response Plan you likely have in place to address operational and logistical issues. Your Crisis Communication Plan will help you determine how you will communicate, how you will handle media attention, and how you will reach employees, customers and other “key influentials” quickly.
You are more likely to be credible and in control during a crisis if you have spent time preparing before the crisis occurs. Your company’s reputation is too important to leave to chance. A Crisis Communication Plan is the best way to ensure your organization will respond quickly and effectively, preserving its good name when a crisis hits.