Crisis Communications
Recent events have made crisis communications a hot topic. Wikipedia defines crisis communications as “a sub-specialty of the public relations profession that is designed to protect and defend an individual, company, or organization facing a public challenge to its reputation.”
PRSA National Chair and CEO Rhoda Weiss recently added in an advocacy statement, “Organizations are on alert this week with respect to possible improvements in their own crisis plans. Under review are both strategic and tactical capabilities in place to coordinate communications as well as how best to use both traditional and nontraditional media and new technology to expedite emergency services and interpersonal news alerts.”
Some argue the need for an extensive crisis communications plan, while others insist a lengthy plan will just sit on the shelf in the heat of the moment.
Do you feel organizations should have extensive crisis plans, simple guidelines or is it best to consult outside help? What should be considered in today’s new media landscape when drafting a plan of action?
