Strategic Vision, LLC Offers Crisis Communications Tips

SUWANEE, Ga. - June 28, 2013 - PRLog -- Strategic Vision, LLC, a public relations and branding agency announces tips for developing a crisis communications plan.  A crisis can come in many forms and when it occurs, a business will face a media whirlwind.  The recent stories about celebrity chef, Paula Deen and the Men’sWearhouse/George Zimmer saga demonstrate the need to have a basic plan in place.  While most businesses will never face crises as encompassing as those, they will at some point be confronted with the need for crisis communications.

“Most businesses never believe that they will be thrust into a crisis and are unprepared when a crisis occurs,” said David E. Johnson.  “The first 48 to 72 hours are critical in responding to a crisis and setting the narrative that the media will report.  Yet many companies are scrambling just to develop the key points they need.  That is why Strategic Vision, LLC is offering tips on crisis communications.”

The basic tips that Strategic Vision offers that businesses should have in place in case of a crisis are:

1.   Have a detailed plan in place.
2.   Have a designated spokesperson.
3.   Know your audience.
4.   Have a social media component.
5.   Have a media policy and procedure in place.
6.   Be prepared to accept responsibility
7.   Do not go silent.
8.   Monitor news reports.
9.   Be prepared for interviews.
10.   Have a post-crisis communications strategy in place.

These basic tips are essential for any brand that is confronted with the unexpected crisis.  The longer the company works in responding to the crisis, the longer and greater the media firestorm will be.