Crisis Communication: Why Messaging Matters Most
In any crisis, how and what you communicate can define the public's perception of your organization. Poor messaging can escalate problems, while thoughtful communication can contain panic and preserve trust.
Principles of Crisis Communication
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Transparency: Hiding the truth damages credibility.
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Speed: Timely communication prevents rumors from taking hold.
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Consistency: Conflicting messages confuse stakeholders.
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Empathy: A human tone goes a long way in maintaining public goodwill.
Channels and Tools
From press releases to social media and direct internal emails, organizations need a multi-platform strategy. Different audiences require different tools.
The Role of the Spokesperson
A well-prepared spokesperson trained in media handling is crucial. They must be clear, composed, and briefed on both facts and tone.
Case in Point
The 2018 Marriott data breach showed how late and vague messaging led to public backlash. In contrast, Johnson & Johnson’s handling of the Tylenol poisoning case remains a gold standard in empathetic, fast, and fact-based communication.
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