In today’s rapidly changing world, any organisation, regardless of size, can suddenly face a crisis. Often, how an organisation responds to it will determine its reputation and long-term business success. Today, the challenges for organisations continue to grow in light of ever evolving societal and media pressures, and there are increasing expectations placed on crisis communications. It has to be effective, fast and understandable to the audience.
The CCNE crisis communications toolkit, created by consultants from agencies across the Crisis Communications Network Europe, can be helpful in planning a crisis communication strategy and building understanding of this niche area of expertise. CCNE is a network of independent European communication and consulting agencies providing top-quality services and advice in the field of crisis communication. The crisis insights in the toolkit therefore come from different member countries, but are versatile enough to be applied to home markets.
The toolkit has been developed to support organisations in effectively managing difficult situations that may affect their future success and reputation. The insights are divided into three sections, i.e. actions before, during and after a crisis. These include tips for communicating with the media during a crisis, recommendations for the use of factsheets, a ‘traffic light’ methodology for assessing a crisis situation, guidance in selecting anti-crisis training or a description of special crisis team meetings such as ‘hot debriefs’. As well as being a source of inspiration or a spark for discussion, these resources can also be used directly in crisis plans, training and crisis response strategies.
The toolkit in English can be downloaded free of charge from the CCNE website.