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As
advisors and consultants, it is often our job to take a critical view of how an
individual, business or educational institution handles a
crisis. Our personal observations and professional exercises often
shape the counsel we provide to clients, assuming we have the opportunity to
collaborate, assess potential situations and prepare accordingly.
David Henderson’s recent commentary in Daily Dog addresses the importance of “instantaneous delivery of important and
often-critical information to audiences.” The paralyzing events that Henderson discusses – 9-11, Katrina, Virginia Tech – are tragic examples of
true communications challenges confounded by technological catastrophes and the
inability to imagine and, therefore, plan for the magnitude of such events.
However, in many instances, a close working relationship
with clients, our familiarity with their industry and our ability to “anticipate”
potential challenges enables us to provide simple crisis communications
protocols to reference in times of need.
While the new media landscape has had an incredible
impact on the dissemination of critical information, it is imperative that we
utilize traditional communications techniques to proactively prepare for
potentially damaging scenarios. Such
techniques include accurate and concise messaging, planning and training
sessions, comprehensive reference materials for individuals across all facets
of an organization and the clear delineation of responsibilities should a
crisis arise.
Crisis planning is among the most important counsel we
can provide today. Let’s hope it is never put into action.
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