When creating a crisis management plan, start by identifying the risks your organization faces. Working with Tucker/Hall can help you find the right ways to handle the various types of crises that may arise.

There may come a time when you face public backlash or negative criticism about your business decisions. Developing your public relations strategy in advance can help limit the impact and slow the spread of negative publicity after a crisis.

Here are some common techniques used in crisis management. If you have questions, you can contact Darren Richards at Tucker/Hall at 813.228.0652 or by emailing drichards@tuckerhall.com.

“The best defense is a good offense.”

This saying is especially true during a crisis. Having a crisis communications plan helps you handle the situation because you’re prepared. It also helps you identify and avoid risks that might otherwise go unchecked.

Instead of defending your actions and getting more questions from the press and public, be ready to give an honest apology and explain the steps you are taking to fix the situation.

Communicate, and then communicate more.

A proven way to handle a crisis is to keep communication channels open and be honest about what you know and what you don’t know. This includes giving updates to key people as you learn new information. Being fully transparent helps you build trust within your team and with your audience. If nothing has changed, let people know that too. It is also okay to say, “I don’t know.”

Simply put, honesty is the best policy. In any developing situation, people will understand that you may not have all the answers.

Respond quickly.

It’s important to act fast when a crisis happens. Some companies choose to stay silent when the public is watching, hoping to avoid saying the wrong thing. While an unpopular response can be hard to recover from, saying nothing is often even worse. You can help solve the problem by sharing information right away. Even if you don’t have all the details, people feel better knowing you’re aware of the situation and working on a solution.