You're facing a crisis situation. How do you navigate sharing sensitive information without inciting panic?

1. Before sharing any information, We need to review our remarks to gauge the probable impact that our words will have on the situation, and adjust them as necessary, e.g., instead of using words, like “crisis,” “life threatening,” or “extremely,” I will prefer less dramatic words depending upon how volatile is the situation. 2. We should share the information only when we are prepared for it and are comfortable in doing so. 3. If available take professional help to share the information. 4. It is better to "DO NO HARM" by hurrying things. 5. At the same time the information MUST be accurate & timely. In the middle of crisis, we can not say "No comments" !

Crises can severely damage an organization’s or individual’s reputation. By communicating openly, honestly, and transparently, crisis communication helps maintain trust and credibility with stakeholders. It demonstrates a commitment to addressing the situation responsibly and proactively, which can ultimately safeguard long-term relationships and public perception. During a crisis, public perception can quickly shift based on the information available. Effective crisis communication allows organizations or individuals to control the narrative and shape public opinion. By providing accurate information, addressing concerns, and showing empathy, they can influence how their actions and response are perceived.

If you go through some SOPs of well established organizations their teams working on safety security or risk management keep people or public ways from being panic through some secret codes while announcements for ERT. Regular training and practices is the only solution to avoid such incidents...

When you assess the risk the most important thing is to release the information that only people need to be informed while you are doing it make sure these people won't be panicked at all and ease it.

Panic stems from fear and uncertainty. Only quality reliable information can dispel fear. If any organisation has a reputation for withholding or ‘massaging’ information then you need never bother with another press release.

The message should be tailored to the community addressed. This includes considering social factors such as age, income, language, culture, and resources when drafting the message. It is also vital to develop relationships with communities to build trust and promote community resilience. The likelihood of panic will be greater if the first time residents hear from emergency management is in times of disaster.

When crafting message for public use make sure over exaggerating the point are avoided, as this may excalete or incite panic in the means of the public always provide assurance of lessen severity of the situation at all cost of chaos

The message should show transparency, empathy and safety awareness. The community wants to know that they are still being protected while in a crisis. Let them know that the situation is being handled, that there will be a briefing once all circumstances have been assessed and that they will be updated as soon as possible.

Depending on the situation you may have to relay information almost immediately but not too much. Keeping the community informed shows that you are being transparent to situations and want the community to be aware of their surroundings and safety.

The PIO person will have pertinent talking points to relay information regarding the current situation. The information will be disseminated on all channels to convey the information for awareness to the public. Being transparent in this industry is vital.

Agree but first ask them in case this happened what would they do.Then talk of pros and cons and ultimately divulge what u need to tell

Maintaining dialogue does keep the public abreast of the stages of the incident. It shows that the situation is being corrected and there is still more work to be done. Keep communication open provides a sense of reassurance to the public.

The leader needs to present as calm and reassuring. They may not necessarily feel that inside, but it is critical to present confidence and a calming demeanor when managing a crisis.

Obtain legal advice to understand the commercial and legal risks that need to be considered and managed. Sending some information may result in exposing the company and individuals unnecessarily.

Be honest. Take accountability / ownership / command of the situation as appropriate. Don't seek to point fingers or place blame. Be objective. Understand and discern the difference between reacting and responding. Be cognizant of sensitivities, but never pander, sugar-coat, or BS your people or the public. Each situation has its commanalities to others as well as it's unique characteristics. There are too many variables to provide generalized / blanket advice in a social media platform. Reach out to your colleagues / peers / mentors for guidance...LinkedIn, et al, host a plethora of industry professionals willing to assist. Get the 30,000 foot view.

Sensitive information should be shared according to the hierarchy of the leadership and need to know basis. While working in the military very sensitive information would only be shared with the top leadership and encourage the lower cadre to be very alert and vigilant without causing panic or fear.