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How Avid handled its crisis–promptly, simply, inclusively and authentically–is a compelling story from which communicators can learn.

A fascinating part of PR crisis communication is how each situation is different, despite sharing some similarities. Both examples this quarter center on what are known as bad facts. In one instance they were reluctantly accepted. For both, their wake lingers.

The friends and relationships needed during a PR crisis often are far different from the partnerships you focus on when operating at normal times. Often, the individuals and institutions that are best positioned to provide support when you have problems are quite different from those you and your company engage with on a day-to-day basis. The problem is most companies not only fail to build those bridges, but they also do not even know who these entities are or where to start.

There is no shortage of PR pros and pundits offering advice about how companies should respond to controversial social issues. Company executives ask whether or not to take a public position. If so, should they speak proactively or only in response to media inquiries? Or, should they discuss an issue internally only, with employees?

This month’s terms to know include Mega Power Frunk and Strive.

For communicators, AI can help gather data, oversee workflow and scheduling, provide assistance in monitoring media and even create virtual influencers. AI also has a role in message creation.

Too often, what many perceive as the end of a PR crisis, the apology, seems formulaic. The company or person admits they’ve done something wrong, issues an apology and all is forgiven. We discuss whether an apology remains important in PR crisis work with Nicki Gibbs, chief strategy officer, Beehive Strategic Communication, and Dr. Kerry O’Grady, faculty director and associate professor, Georgetown University School of Continuing Education.

One of the few certainties during the period we’re living in is how uncertain it is. That makes communication more complex. Communicators know flexibility and adaptability are vital in message creation at a time of potential global political instability, inflation and possible recession, supply chain hang-ups and a pandemic that lingers. Still, even experienced communicators stumble.

Several congressional hearings prove companies aren’t heeding crisis communication basics. The results are awful.

For CPG companies, consumer engagement with Instagram videos rose 52 percent year-over-year, from March 2021 to March 2022, according to Shareablee powered by Comscore. Engagement, or actions, is the sum of likes, shares and comments.… Continued