Communication can make or break your crisis management efforts
When it comes to communication, everyone needs a reality check from time to time. In the latest Crisis Manager newsletter, we featured an excerpt from heralded communications coach Karen Friedman’s book, SHUT UP and Say Something, that explains how to do just that. A quote:
Being straight with people is probably more important than it’s ever been. Thanks to an insatiable demand for information and such ease at instantly sharing that information with people across the globe, I believe the average citizen has forced big business to change. Information such as compensation that was once private is now public. For many companies, the days of lavish golf outings and pricey gifts to prospects are over. People can spot spin almost quickly as Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins can steal a base. Inability to recognize and accept this can spell the difference between success and failure.
Blatant dishonesty is one of the fastest ways to throw the public into a frenzy, and send your organization running for its crisis management team. Except for in very rare cases, the best way to navigate a difficult situation is to maintain the highest level of honest transparency possible. If it is clear to stakeholders and the media that any possible issues are being resolved, then negative interest dissolves and you are free to move on.
The BCM Blogging Team
https://www.bernsteincrisismanagement.com/