There are a lot of steps involved in (well done) crisis communications, but preparation is perhaps the most important.

In a recent conversation with a colleague, they seemed surprised I thought we could be (fairly) well prepared in the event of a crisis. Of course we can!

I often take the role of spokesperson in specific crises, and in my industry, I have a pretty good idea of what those crises will be – and even timing to a degree. It only makes sense that with this much knowledge we can prepare basic key messages and plans. Thus, in the midst of crisis communications, we are focusing on fine-tuning and finalizing instead of creating.

Preparation takes time and initiative, but you’ll be thanking yourself later.