Crisis Communications: Before the Crisis

Hurricane Sandy is a vivid reminder that a crisis can strike at virtually any time. A crisis communications plan is essential. But what if you don't have one or know where to start?

In this three part series, we'll take a look at what you should do before, during and after a crisis. 

Before the Crisis

• Give some thought to what might go wrong. Sure, a crisis is sudden and you cannot foresee every kind of emergency, but you can certainly brainstorm some of the crisis scenarios you might face.
  
  
• Weave crisis communications into your strategic planning. How will you be positioned to handle a crisis? Determine the key decision makers. Who will talk with the media? What procedures will be followed?
  

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• Update your press materials and media contact information. Are you prepared to have someone handle social media during a crisis? Is there a protocal to follow?
  
  
• Update your own internal call and email list. Can everyone be reached? Who makes the call? 
  
  
• Have you secured a crisis communications firm to assist your team? Bringing in an outside firm can add perspective to the situation and allow your own people to devote more time to handling the crisis.
  
  

Do you have any additional suggestions? We'd love to hear them.

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