Remember, in every problem lies an opportunity. Communicating in a crisis to your stakeholders, shareholders, employees, media and the public requires courage and expert handling. It evidences commitment as a corporate citizen, and stands you out as an exemplary manager.

Fallout from the crisis requires rapid response; it demands efficiency and dictates maturity. Any form of miscommunication during these times can permanently tarnish hard earned corporate reputation resulting in potentially irreparable damage.

Crisis management takes many forms but the basic action items are:
· Listen and analyze your situation
· Conduct a damage audit
· Develop a communication procedure
· Prepare the spokesperson
· Manage the Press
· Lobby for buy-in
· Rehearse responses