Dealing with the media during and after a crisis

  • Only those individuals approved in advance by management are authorized to speak to the media on behalf of the organization.
  • When dealing with the media, make every effort to answer questions with complete and accurate information.
  • During the crisis, designate one telephone number to be used as a central clearing site for all media inquiries.
  • Depending on the severity of the incident, consider scheduling periodic press conferences or sending out updated statements on a regular basis.
  • Always bear in mind that statements are never off the record, and anything said, even in passing, might later be reported.