A crisis exists when the well-being of your company, reputation, employees, customers or community are threatened. To manage the message effectively:

1. Prepare a crisis communications plan before a crisis occurs.
2. Designate and media train a spokesperson and a back-up.
3. Don’t underestimate the speed and power of social media.
4. Tell it all, tell it fast and tell it yourself.
5. Keep listening and communicating until the crisis is resolved.

To receive a free Pocket Guide to Crisis Communications or learn more about developing a crisis communications plan, email your name, title, company name and address to: judi.wax@lgapr.com.