10 ways your blog can help manage a crisis

A blog is an important part of a company’s brand.

Though you’ve invested time in the blog’s development, have you ever considered using it to manage a crisis?

A blog offers several advantages over news releases, websites or other social media channels:

Here are 10 valuable ways to use your blog to help manage a crisis:

1. Quick response

Issue your holding statement and/or first “official” response to a crisis as soon as possible on your blog. This prevents the filling of the vacuum with the messages of your critics, competitors or opponents.

Deal with the most obvious concerns. Be proactive. Provide facts. Reassure the community that you’re actively working on the issue and that safety is paramount.

Scott Monty details how SeaWorld used its blog effectively in the tragic death of an employee by one of its killer whales.

2. Voice of record

Use your blog as your company’s voice when you can’t reach employees in other ways.

A fire or other emergency may prevent you from accessing your email system, office fax or communication equipment. In these situations, your blog may be your only available communication channel.