Make sure you don’t become the poster boy for the crisis
#scapegoat #reputation #sectoral crisis
Some crises affect an entire sector. How do you avoid becoming the face of the crisis? How do you coordinate strategic actions? Who takes the lead on crisis communication?
Here are a few tips!
Our tips:
Tip #1: The sector federation as your partner in crime
Consult with the sector federation and let them take the lead on crisis communication. They can speak on behalf of the companies involved without drawing extra attention to you. By speaking with one voice, confusion and conflicting messages can be kept to a minimum.
Does this mean you can hand over all crisis communication?
No!
Even if the sector federation takes the lead, you may still receive questions from journalists, concerned consumers, local residents, employees…
Preparation remains the golden rule here too.
Tip #2: Coordinate with overseas sites
Do you operate within an international structure? That can also create additional pitfalls!
If a recall is decided overseas, you must follow suit. Often, the press release is a translation that fails to take local sensitivities into account.
What can help?
- A crisis matrix: Establish clear agreements in advance between the group and local entities. Who is authorised to decide on and communicate actions in times of crisis? A crisis matrix can provide clarity on which responsibilities lie at which level, depending on the severity of the crisis.
- Local sensitivities and culture: Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach to communication. Allow room for local nuances in communication messages.
Training course in the spotlight: Workshop Crisis management plan
Lay the foundations of your crisis management plan (CMP)
Does your CMP need a thorough update, or is it still in its infancy? In the CMP workshop, we’ll work with the (core) crisis team on the basics and structure of your crisis manual.
Service in the spotlight: Tailored crisis plan
Did you know that we can also tailor your CMP to your specific needs?
Once we’ve provided a quote, we’ll get to work incorporating your requirements and practical considerations to produce an initial draft of your crisis management plan.
Tip: Alimento grants are available to cover the cost of this service.
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