Crisis Management

Merchandise displaying the Confederate battle flag is swiftly being prohibited from sale by major retailers in what has turned into a nationwide movement sparked by the killing of nine people at a historic black church in Charleston, S.C., last week.

Brian Williams’ “apology” interview with Matt Lauer has been panned by most reviewers. If Williams’ goal was to prove that he is ready to be reinstated as the anchor on NBC Nightly News—now or in the future—he didn’t accomplish it.

It’s an occupational hazard for many companies: If the legal squad and the communications crew are unable to find a way to be responsive during a crisis, you’ll be left at the starting line while negative messaging runs free, the opportunity to protect your reputation gets lost, and your inability to respond weakens.

In a crisis situation, your physical presence can say just as much as the message you are delivering.

When an organization’s response (or lack thereof) only helps to prolong a crisis.

Every organization is vulnerable to a crisis at any time. Here are some practical steps to make sure you can navigate through the storm.

Tom Brady gets sacked by Bob Costas and are social media buttons really all that social?

For most PR pros preventing leaks is just part of managing an M&A process. Communicators also are responsible for convincing stakeholders that the merger will bring added value to the company and, if the deal is rejected (read: Comcast-Time Warner Cable), where the companies goes from there.

Communicating crucial details with the public is a primary concern when a tragedy strikes. Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter has proven a largely effective crisis communicator.

Airbnb sends a strong message and Walmart’s insult to injury.