If your organization ever faces a crisis, human resources (HR) and public relations (PR) need to work together to ensure the best response. While their roles may appear different on the surface, both play critical roles in communications.
The human resources department keeps employees informed about what’s happening in the company. Most internal communications come from HR. Public relations, on the other hand, focuses on external audiences, such as customers, clients, and the media. That’s why HR and PR need to work together during a crisis to make sure everyone gets the same message.
Human resources usually gets involved as soon as a crisis starts. This could include dealing with unexpected injuries or deaths, high turnover, the loss of key leaders, or legal issues involving current or former employees. Bringing in a communications expert to work with HR early on can help the company decide how to share difficult information with various audiences. Things such as: What can you say in public? What should you say? What do employees need to know? What will you tell reporters?
A crisis can also lower staff morale and make it hard for employees to focus on their jobs. This is another area where HR and PR can collaborate to develop plans and programs that address any concerns.
When HR and PR professionals work together on a communication plan, your company is more likely to handle a crisis well. If your HR and PR teams don’t already strategize on crisis communication, now is a good time to start. To speak with a professional about training and preparation, contact Tucker/Hall.
