CIPR launches new guide on Crisis Communication and Social Media

The Chartered Institute of Public Relations’ (CIPR) Crisis Communications Network has launched a new best practice guide to help PR professionals navigate the challenges of crisis communication in the age of social media. 

The new resource – Crisis Communication and Social Media – is the second in a series from the Network designed to equip PR and communications professionals with knowledge, strategies, and insights needed to prepare for, mitigate, and manage organisational crises across digital platforms. 

Built around the five-stage model of a crisis, the guide combines real life case studies with expert contributions including chapters from: 

  • Philippe Borremans on using AI-powered predictive analytics to monitor and mitigate risk
  • Paul Quigley covering the three steps to effectively use technology to understand or predict a crisis 
  • Shayoni Lynn on disinformation and how it differs from misinformation  

The guide also introduces tools for monitoring public sentiment, strategies for proactive engagement, techniques for effective communication before, during, and after a crisis, examples that highlight the power and speed of social media in amplifying and creating crises, and common pitfalls to avoid when responding to them.

In today’s world, the fundamental principles of effective crisis communication can only be upheld by bridging the gap between traditional crisis management and the constantly evolving social media landscape. While social media can amplify criticism and raise awareness of a crisis, it also offers exciting communication opportunities for those who are well-prepared with a solid plan. This new guide focuses on these opportunities, providing strategic advice on how to effectively communicate with a digital mindset during a crisis.
Felix Östman, guide Editorial Director and CIPR Crisis Communications Network Committee Member

This guide to Crisis Communications and Social Media is the second in what we hope will be a regular series.  It is part of our plan to deliver on the Crisis Communications Network’s purpose, which is to promote excellence and share best practice in crisis communication.  Practitioners often ask us how to deal with social media when a crisis blows up, so in response we have created a document that brings together advice, insights and case studies in one place.  It is truly a collaborative work, and we would like to thank both our committee members and the external commentators who have so generously provided their wisdom and experience.
Katherine Sykes and Chris Tucker, Co-Chairs of the CIPR Crisis Communications Network

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