Communicating at a time of crisis
The unexpected always comes from a clear-blue sky – a lethal product flaw, a crippling OSHA complaint, a stock scandal. Suddenly the questions turn hostile. But you remain in control: your robust defense is supported by well-rehearsed audience-calming and media-management skills. Because you were prepared, you can set the agenda.
Communicating at a time of crisis: Calming nerves, managing the media, setting your agenda
You don't know what's around the corner. But you can be prepared for it. And the time to start is now. With a crisis communications plan in place—and the confidence that comes with well-rehearsed presentational skills—you have the tools to avert disaster. There are nervous audiences to be reassured (employees, board members, stock holders, customers) and hostile journalists to be confronted.
But you have worked hard in your training sessions. You're no longer fazed by tough questions, you have the facts at hand, and you know how to tell your story with conviction and sincerity. In contrast, the wait-till-it-happens approach puts brand integrity and livelihoods on the line. Lack of preparation is as costly as it can get. When the media are on your doorstep, a "no comment" only feeds the frenzy of speculation. Worse, it sounds like an admission of guilt. Communicating at a time of crisis breaks the cycle of blame and accusation. It teaches you to analyze the key elements of a crisis and to develop your communications strategy.
It shows delegates how to:
- Think on their feet
- Respond pre-emptively to signs of impending crisis
- Develop key messages for various media
- Manage hostile interviewers
- Project a favorable image
- Demonstrate sincerity, clarity, and confidence
- Convey credibility and compassion
- Anticipate and answer key questions
- Establish congruence between body language and words
- Recover gracefully from memory lapses
- Disarm reporters' verbal grenades
- Select appropriate language for different audiences
- Avoid rhetorical traps
- Control audience perception
- Avoid misquotations
- Overcome stage fright
- Maintain control in the hot seat
- use gestures effectively
- Avoid the perception of defensiveness
- Project empathy and openness
To find out how you can prepare yourself for the unexpected, call us toll-free at 866-806-4366 or locally at 720-394-7999 or e-mail info@gurumaker.com. Do it today. Tomorrow may be too late.
Please note: No two programs are alike. We customize each one to meet your objectives. Whether you choose private coaching, workshops, seminars, train-the-trainer, or breakout sessions, we tailor the duration and format to suit your circumstances.
Click here to tell us about your unique communication needs.