Crises do not only happen in “other companies”, but in all of them and when you do not expect it.
A crisis can be a negative publication, a sudden technical failure, an incorrect post on social media, or even an incident involving a customer.
The question is not whether a crisis will happen, but when. And when it does, implementing a well-designed plan makes all the difference.
Below I will share with you 4 practical reasons why it is important that every business/organization is prepared:
- You save time and keep your cool
In a crisis, the first minutes are decisive. When the team has instructions, they are not in a panic. They know which person is responsible, who informs and who solves the problem.
- Product case: An airline with a flight breakdown gave a single announcement to all channels within 15 minutes. Αvoid rumors and keep control of the narrative.
- Service case: A law firm that was negatively targeted in the media had a ready-made message and an official position. Instead of everyone talking, the ideal person spoke up and formed an opinion.
- You maintain the trust you’ve built over the years
Trust is easier to lose than to gain. With a clear plan, you show that you are not hiding and that you are not improvising, but also that you are prepared for everything.
- Product Case: A bank that had its systems crashed immediately informed about what happened and when it will be restored. Customers may have been irritated, but they didn’t lose their trust.
- Service case: A medical center that had delays in appointments personally informed patients, giving them new options. No one felt that was ignored.
- You protect your reputation – or even boost it
Reputation is the most valuable asset. A bad reaction can do more damage than the crisis itself.
- Product case: A food chain that identified a problem with products, recalled them on the same day and announced it publicly. The people saw responsibility and not weakness.
- Service case: A consulting agency that received a negative comment on LinkedIn responded with professionalism and evidence. The post that could have hurt them but eventually became proof of seriousness.
- You limit financial losses
Every crisis has a cost that increases depending on the management. An organized plan reduces cancellations, customer loss, and bad reviews.
- Product case: A hotel found without electricity offered compensation and future free accommodation. They kept the reservations and avoided a “storm” of negative comments.
- Service case: an organization that canceled a seminar due to a public transport strike immediately made it available online. The participants were satisfied, and confirmed their readiness and professionalism.
A crisis management plan is not “extra work”. It is an investment in its resilience, reputation and sustainability.
If you are ready to differentiate yourself and be prepared then the upcoming Crisis Management Seminar is perfect for you – see more information here.
Christofi Vasiliki
Applied Communication, Soft Skills and PR Specialist,
NAMA Certified: Anger Management Specialist
CCIS Crisis Intervention Specialist
Trainer & Coach