10 Rules for Crisis Communications

What are some good rules for crisis communications? Protecting your reputation and operations starts with clear goals and a plan you can follow under pressure.

Here are ten practical rules for crisis communications focused on public relations.

1. Have a Plan for a Crisis

   You need template plans for the scenarios your organization is most likely to face. These plans outline steps, roles, and protocols. A strong template gives your team a clear path when a crisis hits.

   
   

2. Commit to Training and Practice Crisis Scenarios

   Training prepares leaders and staff for tough moments. Hold regular practice sessions and walk through likely crises. These sessions help you spot problems early and reduce risks. You can use Fitler Square Strategies' proprietary program, Siege, to help practice crisis scenarios.

   
   

3. Have Holding Statements and Collateral Prepared

   Prepare holding statements that cover common situations. Build simple video and graphic templates you can deploy fast. Prepared statements give you a head start on your response.

   
   

4. Know Your Teams

   You need a clear team structure with defined roles. Identify who leads, who approves, and who executes. When everyone knows their job, you respond faster and with fewer errors.

   
   

5. Act on Facts

   Use only verified information. Keep a database of confirmed facts. Build a process to check anything before release. This helps prevent misinformation and protects your credibility.

   
   

6. Show Empathy and Compassion

   People feel fear, loss, or stress during a crisis. Your response needs a human tone. Simple empathy builds trust and shows you care about the people affected.

   
   

7. Set Goals and Know Your Exit Strategy

   Define what success looks like before the crisis peaks. Know how you plan to return to normal operations. Clear goals keep your team focused.

   
   

8. Have a Strong Approval Process

   You need fast decisions, not chaotic ones. Set an approval path that includes the right experts and decision makers. This helps you release accurate information on the first try.

   
   

9. Use the Right Communications Channels and Tools

   Reach people through the channels they watch. Use social media, email, or direct outreach as needed. Pick the tools that connect with your audience during stressful moments.

   
   

10. Develop Concentric Circles of Outreach

    Organize your stakeholder lists in tiers. Notify the right people at the right time before, during, and after the event.

    
    

Conclusion

Fitler Square Strategies helps organizations plan for and respond to difficult moments. Reach out to schedule a conversation and learn how we strengthen crisis readiness and response.