Crisis Communications

Nobody knows when a crisis may occur. But if, and when, a crisis situation arises, having a comprehensive crisis communications plan in place will go a long way to controlling the situation from every stakeholder's standpoint.

Even under the best possible circumstances, crises and unexpected issues can trigger an onslaught of public attention that may threaten the stability and financial health of any organization.

Crisis and issues management are two public relations specialties that Crosby-Volmer developed over the years in assisting numerous companies from many industries – often 'under the gun.'

Crosby-Volmer is able to step in on short notice and provide counsel and expertise gained from handling situations ranging from environmental disasters to airline catastrophes.

Often a crisis will last only a day or two, so rapid response and onsite counsel are critical. At other times issues may gain public exposure for months or even years. In those cases, Crosby-Volmer prepares long-range plans aimed at a credible presentation of our client's side of an issue. In every case Crosby-Volmer applies methods of media relations and communications that have been tested 'under fire' in similar situations.

How do you know when it's a crisis?

Not every drama is a crisis. Problems arise every day, and management is paid to deal with them in due course.

A problem becomes a crisis when the media starts paying attention to it, amplifies it, and matters escalate rapidly out of immediate control. If the focus is short term and media driven, it's a crisis. At that point, it becomes a matter of perception rather than reality; and if you don't respond quickly with the right message, the court of public opinion will find you guilty.

Most often a crisis is marked by several recognizable characteristics: it affects the everyday life of the organization; there are real and lasting risks to the firm's image and reputation; it has the potential to affect the bottom line; and the pressure intensifies dramatically.

It is important to remember that while the media may precipitate a crisis, the crisis will never be solved in the media. The causes of a crisis are usually found inside the organization: unhappy or dishonest staff, bad management, a high-risk culture or poor risk-management processes, or failures in product quality control. For many firms, there is often the added risk that the problem is hidden within a client's business.

But when, where, and how the crisis is resolved is entirely in your hands. Crosby-Volmer works with organizations to establish time-tested systematic plans to deal with any and all crisis situations that may occur.

Ξ Please contact us to request more information about us or any of our services.

2008-05-09 16:35:04

© 2008 Crosby~Volmer International Communications