Here's how you can use confidence to effectively manage media and public relations in emergencies.

Based on my experience, proactiveness is the key to prepare in advance and maintain trust 1 We start with developing a crisis communication plan which include potential scenarios, creating templates assembling crisis team 2 We provide media training to key spokesperson to ensure they are comfortable, conduct simulation exercises for practice 3 Acknowledge the crisis to public and media without downplaying severity, ensure all information shared is accurate verified 4 We provide regular updates to share new information to share to build consistency build trust 5 Recognize impact of crisis on individuals communities, highlight support resource available 6 Respond to media inquiries promptly to show we are proactive

Building trust with your audience is essential for confidently managing media and public relations during emergencies. In a crisis, people seek reliable and consistent information. Ensure that your communications are accurate and your messages are clear. Transparency about what you know, what you don’t know, and the steps being taken to find out more establishes a foundation of trust. This trust allows you to control the narrative and gives your statements more credibility, even in uncertain situations. For example, during a natural disaster, consistently updating the public with verified information and addressing their concerns directly can significantly enhance your credibility and control over the situation.

One of the most important things to remember about building trust is that it can be gone in a moment. To have trust, you have to ensure to be transparent with your team. If you don't know something, don't make something up. Be honest and say that you don't know, but that you will find out. Also, provide updates. Don't just leave your team waiting.

Making sure that the narrative is accurate means that you have to not only be open, honest, and transparent about what has happened and what you're doing about it, but you also have to be willing to listen to questions and comments. When there appears to be an alternative narrative that is developing, make sure you politely but firmly shut it down and focus on the facts of the incident. It's very easy to get emotionally involved, especially when conspiracy theories and misinformation arise, but it's vitally important that you communicate clearly and maintain the narrative so that the truth becomes the sole narrative.

Always be the first to go to the media, thus "proactively". You never want to be caught off guard. Provide that same transparency you provided to your team. This helps to ensure that the media and public reaches out to you first before they spread any misinformation.

You can never go wrong with using LEAPS when interacting with someone who may be feeling distressed during an uncomfortable situation. -Listen -Empathize -Ask -Paraphrase -Summarize When dealing with people, your biggest weapon will always be your words. I personally like to try building personal connections with people that are especially upset, stressed, or angry. It tends to more often than not help someone feel more calm and relaxed. Also, talking to someone as a normal human being, not like a robot.

When a disaster occurs, the media and public look to someone to see if they are managing it. If they don't see someone handling it, this can lead to chaos. Make sure you are the person that leads rather than follows. Be confident and show it, thats what emergency management is all about.

Cultural awareness in media and public relations during emergencies involves recognizing and respecting the diverse backgrounds of affected communities. This includes providing information in multiple languages, using culturally relevant messaging, and collaborating with trusted community leaders to ensure effective dissemination. It's essential to use media channels popular within different cultural groups and include visuals that reflect community demographics. Tailoring communication to cultural norms and values fosters inclusivity and trust, ensuring that all community members feel represented and informed during critical times.

Remember to know the local media and what angles they write their stories on. You know your supporters and entertain them first and you need to deflect responses you are not sure about and get back to them later. Do not answer what you are not sure of but also commit to following up when possible.... Public relations is Brand Management and creates public confidence also....