Share information first to prevent problems later
We live in a litigation-happy society, but, while it’s important to protect your business, in the midst of a public crisis disseminating important information should take priority. Besides increasing safety for all involved, this practice plays another crucial role in crisis management, as this quote from an OrangePR blog post explains:
Reacting quickly and efficiently gives the public immediate piece of mind. Taking away the element of the unknown, even if the information is jarring, instantly appeases an apprehensive public. Also, reacting swiftly gets accurate information in front of false information that can be disseminated when official statements are too slow. Citizen journalism, social media and an ever-revolving news cycle make it imperative to respond early.
Calming the (potentially) panicked and halting rumors, all through telling the truth about what’s going on? Sounds like a good deal to me.
Everyone may not be happy about what they’re hearing, but by getting out ahead of the story you not only gain control of the flow of information, but also move closer to a resolution.
The BCM Blogging Team
https://www.bernsteincrisismanagement.com/
Comments 1
Saw this in action yesterday while caught in the blackout in San Deigo. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDGE)was on Twitter immediately with info. We were caught in the traffic snarl–power out at rush hour was bizarre. Twitter also pointed people to local AM radio station and SDGE was on with a live press conference shortly after extensive outage. News was absent on web, but SDGE encouraged people to follow on Twitter–my hat is off to them. They did a good job.