Crisis? Communicate!
It’s the second best thing you can do.
The best thing, of course, is to analyze the situation, assess its consequences, make swift decisions, and implement the necessary measures.
But you need to communicate all this clearly and promptly to eliminate uncertainty.
Uncertainty slows sales and hinders business.
Crisis prevention and training
Design of crisis response structures and roles
Development of crisis communication strategies
Support in describing the situation and its impact
Support in explaining the measures taken and their intended effects
Formulating goals and strategies in light of the crisis
Conveying the competence and authority of responsible individuals and points of contact
Media and social media monitoring
Writing a message to colleagues in a family-owned business after the sudden passing of a key leader follows its own set of rules. It requires a careful balance—from expressing grief and honoring the person who has passed, to affirming the stability of the company and the continuity of business, and finally introducing new leadership and demonstrating their support from the owning family.
Information and emotion, sympathy and confidence, change and reassurance—all must be balanced within just a few sentences and paragraphs. Confidence is strengthened when the message can reference successful past initiatives, as this naturally shifts the focus toward the future.
It’s also helpful to offer opportunities for direct conversations, as this reinforces a sense of belonging.
Good communications and business advise conveys a sense of security.