Functional crisis communication plans start with effective internal communication.

Sadly, during crises, the internal communications piece is often overlooked. When that happens, employees often feel betrayed by management. If your leader is reticent about communicating internally, you can sell him or her on the idea by illustrating how it is another chance to gain political capital and earn allies throughout the organization.

We recommend that one of the first thing that is done in the event of a crisis, even before talking to the press, is to hold a meeting, conference call, video broadcast, or whatever is easiest and fastest with your employees. If the reporters are pounding down your door, send someone out to tell them that you are holding a meeting to discuss the issue with your employees, which should be over in approximately 30 minutes, after which time you will talk with them.

The last thing you want to have happen is for your employees to hear about a problem, plant closing, or other issue from the press. They should hear it from you first.

Explore tips and techniques for writing a functional crisis communication plan with Crisis Communication Planning: Organizing and Completing a Plan That Works.
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