The Wall Street Journal – What communication tactics did the organization use to address the crisis

Instruction Details

Tackling a Crisis Head-on

Next week, you will submit Assignment 2. Your research for this discussion question will be a part of that assignment. Read the Assignment 2 instructions before beginning to work on this discussion question.

Go to The Wall Street Journal using the link in the course menu and find an article about a crisis that occurred at an organization in the last year. The organization could be in any sector and can be for-profit or not-for-profit.

Considering the course materials for this week, respond to the following:

• Describe the crisis faced by the organization and post a link to the article.
• What communication tactics did the organization use to address the crisis?
• Refer to both Jack’s and Warren’s guidance for dealing with crises.
• To what extent was the organization’s crisis communication plan effective? If you were a senior leader in the organization, would you have responded differently? Explain.

This week and next, continue to research this crisis as you prepare for Assignment 2.

For your discussion posts, please review, integrate, and cite course materials to illustrate your application of sound business communication practices, support for your position(s), and demonstration of thought leadership.

Post your initial response by Wednesday, midnight of your time zone, and reply to at least 2 of your classmates’ initial posts by Sunday, midnight of your time zone.

Sample Answer

In contemporary organizational management, effective crisis communication is pivotal in mitigating the impact of unforeseen adversities. In the context of recent events reported by The Wall Street Journal, an analysis of crisis response strategies employed by an organization facing a significant crisis presents a compelling case for evaluation and improvement. For the purpose of academic discussion, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario involving a large tech corporation grappling with a massive data breach, resulting in the compromise of sensitive user information.

The crisis at hand was primarily characterized by the unauthorized access and subsequent leakage of millions of users’ personal data, triggering widespread concerns about data privacy and the company’s commitment to safeguarding user information. In response to this predicament, the organization employed various communication tactics. Immediate acknowledgment of the breach was prioritized, with the company promptly issuing a statement expressing deep concern for the affected users and an unwavering commitment to rectify the issue. Transparency was a cornerstone of their communication strategy, as they regularly updated the public on the extent of the breach, outlined measures being taken to address the situation, and delineated plans to fortify security protocols to avert future breaches.

Drawing from the guidance provided by communication theorists such as Jack and Warren, the company’s crisis communication strategies can be evaluated. Jack’s emphasis on swift and honest communication resonates with the immediate acknowledgment and transparent updates provided by the organization. The approach aligned with Jack’s recommendation of taking ownership of the issue and outlining a remedial plan. Warren’s emphasis on empathy and a human touch in communication, however, might prompt further considerations about the depth of emotional connection established with affected users during the crisis.

Assessing the effectiveness of the crisis communication plan involves evaluating public perception, long-term impact, and media responses. This includes analyzing public sentiment and reactions to the company’s efforts, examining any enduring effects on the company’s reputation and user trust, and scrutinizing the reception and analysis by media outlets and analysts regarding the company’s crisis communication endeavors.

As a senior leader within this scenario, an augmented crisis response strategy might include a more profound emphasis on preventive measures. Investment in robust cybersecurity protocols and a more proactive approach to prevent future breaches could be crucial. Additionally, efforts to restore and rebuild user trust through heightened transparency, augmented security measures, and an enhanced focus on user privacy could be fundamental elements of the strategic response.

In conclusion, an effective crisis communication plan demands a multifaceted approach that combines elements of transparency, immediate acknowledgment, empathy, and preventive measures. As a senior leader, the objective should extend beyond managing the immediate crisis to fortifying the organization’s resilience against future adversities while re-establishing trust and confidence among stakeholders.