Communications: crisis prevention and management

In this age of digital communications, the speed at which information — and misinformation — circulates has increased exponentially. Reputations can be made or mauled in the blink of an eye. So when a crisis occurs, organizations have no choice but to react quickly and decisively.

A number of recent examples (Disney, Uber, Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Just for Laughs, etc.) have provided us with precious insight into the best and worst ways for dealing with unexpected events in a world where the only constant is change. They are also an invaluable source of information with regard to post-crisis preparedness and ongoing public perception issues.

But how exactly do you go about planning for the unplannable? How do you communicate transparently and efficiently in the midst of information overload, or when a message takes on a life of its own? How can you learn from the experience and, in the best-case scenario, turn crisis into opportunity?

When dealing with a digital crisis, planning, organizing and taking the lead are all avenues that are open to you. Controlling the message, however, is a whole other story. And yet crisis represents an important stage in the life of an organization: it is a time where leaders and brands are born — or killed.

Learn how to step up and guide your partners and your company when the worst comes to pass. Get a better handle on the expectations and demands of the media in sensitive situations. And find out how to take a proactive approach to building confidence and trust among your stakeholders and the public at large.