Crisis communication
Public sentiment is everything. Without public sentiment, nothing can fail without it, nothing can succeed - Abraham Lincoln [1]
The topic of crisis management is one that cannot be taken lightly, especially in today's world where news can spread rapidly and negatively impact the reputation of individuals and organizations. The advice provided in the given list can be crucial in dealing with a crisis and mitigating its effects.
One key takeaway is to remember that the media is not your friend, but rather a professional entity. It is important to approach any interaction with the media in a professional manner and not divulge too much personal information. In addition, it is essential to be truthful and not evade questions, as this can only exacerbate the situation.
Another important aspect of crisis management is controlling the flow of information. It is crucial to provide timely and accurate information to the media to prevent rumors or misinformation from spreading. At the same time, it is equally important to not say more than what is necessary, as this can lead to further problems.
Additionally, it is essential to know the press that you are dealing with and to provide them with information that is worthy of being published or broadcast. This can help to build a positive relationship with the media and also provide a better understanding of the situation at hand.
Overall, the advice provided in the given list can be invaluable in managing a crisis. From being honest and concise, to controlling the flow of information and building a positive relationship with the media, these tips can help individuals and organizations weather any storm that may come their way. As such, it is important to keep these tips in mind and be prepared for any potential crisis that may arise in the future. One recent example of crisis management in the Philippines is how the Department of Health (DOH) handled the dengue vaccine controversy. In 2017, the Philippine government launched a dengue immunization program using the Dengvaxia vaccine manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur. However, concerns arose over the safety of the vaccine after reports of deaths allegedly linked to the vaccine.
The DOH responded by launching a thorough investigation into the issue and providing regular updates to the public. The agency also established a hotline for concerned individuals to seek information and medical advice. The DOH also coordinated with other government agencies to ensure that affected individuals received proper medical attention and that the vaccination program was halted.
Despite the controversy, the DOH was able to mitigate the situation by being transparent, providing timely and accurate information, and working closely with relevant stakeholders. This helped to restore public trust and confidence in the agency's ability to address health concerns in the country.
[1] A quote by Abraham Lincoln. (n.d.). Quote by Abraham Lincoln: “In This Age, in This Country, Public Sentiment . . .” https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/489251-in-this-age-in-this-country-public-sentiment-is-everything
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