Cleary's "Public Relations Considerations When Managing a Crisis" outlines a sound PR-focused framework for crisis response preparation and follow-through that can be tailored to company-specific facts & circumstances and easily integrated into a more comprehensive crisis management plan. The memo identifies and elaborates on three key process steps; summarizes the most pertinent Reg. S-K items relevant to regulatory investigation disclosures; and includes a list of do's and don'ts for developing a public statement - assuming the company determines to make one.
Noteworthy takeaways include:
- Identify a crisis response team in advance of the occurrence of any crisis that consists of both internal players representing a cross-section of the company/organization, as well as outside counsel and PR consultants.
- In determining whether to make a public statement, consider how the crisis was manifested; the status of any investigation and availability of information; and applicable regulatory schemes (e.g., securities laws) that govern or influence legal disclosure obligations.
- Both legal and practical considerations (see the do's & don'ts) should factor into the public messaging.
Access additional information & resources on our Crisis Management page. This post first appeared in the weekly Society Alert!