Four Tips for Effective Crisis Management

A PR Crisis takes place when negative events occur, which could significantly affect the brand reputation of a firm. In such cases, the role of Crisis Management comes into play in an attempt to handle a PR crisis. This refers to the identification of a threat to an organisation’s activities, inclusive of its stakeholders. There are different ways to handle crisis management. Fast action, strategy formulation, external communication and situation monitoring are four significant tips to help handle crisis management in PR and mitigate damage.

Fast Action

This translates to efficient and swift communication once a crisis has been identified. There is an increased chance of regaining control over a negative turn of events when stakeholders are alerted as quickly as possible. Furthermore, it’s important to take the necessary next steps and measures that could result in swifter problem solving. Such as, the exploration of options available and appointing a response team.

Strategy Formulation

The organisation and stakeholders involved need to come up with an effective strategy and divide responsibilities amongst the members of the response team. Each member should have an understanding of their designated tasks, in order to have direction on what aspect of the crisis management they are to action.

External Communication

All parties outside the organisation that can possibly be affected by the crisis, need to be notified with the relevant information on the next steps established. Examples of such parties are: customers, business partners and the media. Relevant press releases and statements should be prepared to send off to these parties, in order to seal off information — before creating room to receive any sort of backlash.

Situation Monitoring

Following a PR crisis, it’s important for an organisation to assess their brand image in its entirety and in relation to the crisis that took place. Also, being vigilant and responsive to internal & external communication is very critical at this point. This further provides the window and opportunity to address any questions or concerns from the public. It is also important to monitor your audience and stakeholders, to gain valuable insight about conversations circulating in the atmosphere of a crisis.

In total, most businesses are bound to face a Public Relations crisis at some point in time during the course of their operations. What matters is how well the business is able to respond to said crisis. It is advised for organisations to have a team on standby specifically for the purpose of crisis management. Finally, handling crisis management by following tips like fast action, strategy formulation, external communication and situation monitoring, is a great way to approach and overcome a PR crisis.

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Karina is a fun, driven and energetic girl who has a passion for Music, PR and Events. She is very outgoing, loves spending time with friends & family and also values her alone time as well!