crisis management
BP Crisis Management
27/07/10 15:09 Filed in: Public Relations
This incident with BP serves well to remind us that we are all vulnerable to outside influences that could seriously affect our reputation. When our reputation is damaged it can take years to regain.
So how can you ensure that your company is ready to positively handle a crisis that may not be your fault?
For example: What if the property next door burns down and seriously damages your premises, can you still deliver to your clients/customers?
Are you going to be able to reassure customers that you are still in business and performing at the same high standard?
Do your staff know what to say to everyone outside the building including journalists, family members, clients, and work colleagues?
There are a number of starting points that you can do today.
Run crisis management courses for your board members and staff to ensure they all know what to do and say.
Look at all the likely things that could happen and work up a crisis strategy around each one so that the plan can kick into action the instant something happens.
BP have taught us all a valuable lesson, don’t leave your Crisis Management up to chance by saying “it will never happen to us.” It can so therefore it might.
Posted by: Vivienne Tregidga
PR and Marketing Manager PNDesign.