How can we communicate better in a crisis?
2 minute read
Communicate early and often
Employees are the business and we can’t forget this in a time of crisis. Remember to communicate with all staff members regularly and honestly. Getting staff together and communicating early in the morning is a great way to maintain some normality with your staff as well as helping to set the tone for the day. With things changing daily it’s a great way to keep everyone updated and as a company help to put minds at ease and provide hope for the future.
Streamline internet communications
Provide a platform which is easy for you and your employees to communicate and work alongside smoothly throughout the day. Instantaneous communication is key especially since news can cause global shifts.
It can be useful to have key messages that you might need to broadcast quickly already drafted. It will be easier for you to change a few things rather than draft an email when reacting to changes that might not necessarily be welcomed.
Get your team together
Gather a group of you who can act fast and make decisions quickly. In time of a crisis things need to happen faster than normal. Within your team make sure you have expertise from all departments of your business: sales, operations, HR and senior leadership. This will also help to translate key messages through to the departments.
Make sure the team meet regularly throughout the date to update on any changes; ensure your team is the main source of information regarding the crisis so the message is consistent, and be specific in your communication – don’t beat around the bush.
Stay focused on positive solutions
As I mentioned above, be the source of positivity for your employees. Shift the focus from what we can’t do to what we can do. Many people are facing fear and panic which isn’t going to provide that creativity and proactiveness that every business needs right now.
Start by hosting brainstorming sessions with whole teams on how you can assist your current client base. This will not only provide revenue opportunities but help focus your team on forward-thinking solutions when the times get tough.
Be proactive with communication in the community
