9.1 Working with Traditional Media During Crises

Media relationships and communication strategies are crucial in crisis management. Building strong connections with journalists through proactive engagement and timely information sharing helps organizations control their narrative during crises. Regular updates, media training, and accessible resources foster trust and credibility.

Effective crisis communication hinges on designated spokespersons and strategic media management techniques. A trained spokesperson serves as the authoritative voice, while tactics like media briefings, fact-checking, and monitoring coverage ensure consistent, accurate messaging. These approaches help organizations navigate crises and maintain public trust.

Building Media Relationships and Communication Strategies

Strategies for media relationship building

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• Proactive media engagement through regular press releases and updates keeps journalists informed and fosters ongoing dialogue
• Maintain updated media contact list ensures quick access to key journalists during crises
• Offer subject matter expertise by providing industry insights and background information positions organization as valuable resource
• Respond promptly to media inquiries demonstrates reliability and builds trust
• Host media training sessions for key personnel improves organizational readiness for media interactions
• Develop media-friendly online newsroom with easy access to press materials and high-resolution assets (images, b-roll footage) facilitates efficient reporting

Importance of timely crisis information

• Builds credibility and trust by demonstrating transparency and commitment to public awareness
• Prevents spread of misinformation by providing accurate, authoritative information quickly
• Allows organization to control the narrative and shape public perception of the crisis
• Demonstrates accountability and willingness to address issues head-on
• Reduces speculation and rumors by filling information gaps with facts
• Facilitates faster crisis resolution through clear, consistent messaging
• Supports stakeholder confidence by keeping them informed and engaged
• Enables informed decision-making by the public based on accurate, up-to-date information

Crisis Communication Management

Role of designated crisis spokesperson

• Central point of contact for all media inquiries ensures consistent messaging and information flow
• Trained in crisis communication techniques to handle high-pressure situations effectively
• Represents organization's official stance, providing authoritative and credible information
• Handles difficult questions with composure, maintaining organizational reputation
• Bridges gap between technical experts and public understanding, translating complex information
• Coordinates with internal teams to gather and verify accurate information before dissemination
• Adapts communication style to different media formats (print, broadcast, digital) for effective messaging

Techniques for crisis media management

• Establish media inquiry triage system prioritizing requests based on urgency and reach for efficient response
• Set up dedicated media hotline or email to streamline communication channels
• Prepare key messages and talking points ensuring consistency across all communications
• Conduct media briefings or press conferences to provide updates and address multiple outlets simultaneously
• Use holding statements when full information is unavailable to acknowledge awareness and ongoing efforts
• Implement fact-checking process before releasing information to maintain accuracy and credibility
• Offer background briefings for complex topics to enhance journalists' understanding of the situation
• Monitor media coverage and respond promptly to inaccuracies to maintain control of the narrative
• Provide written statements for clarity and quotability ensuring accurate representation in media reports
• Schedule one-on-one interviews strategically to provide in-depth information to key outlets