Why Every Business Needs a Crisis Communications Plan

A crisis can strike at any moment for any number of reasons, so businesses must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively. To do so, having a well-thought-out crisis communications plan is essential or you’ll risk your brand’s reputation, consumer trust and finances. 

The High Stakes of Crisis Response

For businesses that operate in industries where safety, quality and public perception are paramount, it’s imperative to be prepared for unexpected adversity. At the very least, companies should have plans to address these potential crises:  

• System failures: Cybersecurity breaches, power outages, equipment malfunctions can all lead to a communication breakdown.
• Food Recalls: Contaminated products can lead to widespread illness and major reputational damage. In 2018, a major romaine lettuce recall due to E. coli outbreaks led to nationwide concern and significant industry disturbances.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the supply chain, leaving some businesses struggling to keep shelves stocked and maintain operations.
• Misinformation and Public Backlash: Social media can spread misinformation quickly. A single viral post can harm a brand overnight.

To navigate crises effectively, a crisis communications plan should include:

• A designated Crisis Team
• Prepared messaging
• Media and stakeholder engagement strategy
• Monitoring tools
• Post-crisis evaluation

The Value of Being Proactive

Being proactive is imperative. A well-prepared company that communicates swiftly and transparently is more likely to regain public trust and recover financially because it turned the crisis into an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to safety, quality and responsibility.

At Jigsaw, we help businesses develop crisis communication strategies that protect their brands and ensure business continuity. Don’t wait for a crisis to happen—be prepared. Contact us to start building your crisis communications plan.