Introduction
Risk and crisis communication are two related but distinct forms of communication, and understanding their differences is essential for any organization. This discussion will analyze and discuss the difference between risk and crisis communication, explore an example of a current organizational or business crisis in the media, and determine the pros and cons of different communication channels. By the end of this discussion, it will become clear why having a firm grasp of risk and crisis communication is essential for any organization.
Analyze and discuss the difference between risk and crisis communication.
Risk and crisis communication are separate yet connected. Risk communication is the proactive dissemination of possible dangers or threats to motivate individuals to lower the risk or mitigate its effects (Wang et al., 2021). On the other hand, crisis communication is reactive communication about an ongoing or impending crisis to minimize damage and resume regular operations as soon as feasible (Wang et al., 2021).
The timing of a message is the main distinction between risk and crisis communication. Crisis communication occurs during or after a crisis, while risk communication occurs before a problem emerges (Wang et al., 2021). Compared to crisis communication, which focuses on responding to, managing, and containing an existing situation, risk communication is more often than not geared toward preventing problems before they arise.
Risk communication focuses on providing information and educating people about potential risks and how to mitigate them. In contrast, crisis communication is focused on responding quickly, communicating accurate information, and reassuring and supporting those affected by the crisis (Wang et al., 2021). Crisis communication requires quick thinking and agility, while risk communication usually requires a long-term strategy.
Find a current organizational or business crisis in the media and discuss whether the organization followed the five steps for planning crisis communication.
One recent organizational or business crisis in the media is the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In crisis communication, many organizations have followed the five steps for planning crisis communication: anticipating, monitoring, preparing, responding, and evaluating (Bernard et al., 2021).
First, many firms have identified pandemic threats, proactively prepared for disruptions, and stayed current (Bernard et al., 2021). Second, organizations closely monitor the situation, remain current, and make required modifications. Third, many organizations have taken precautions and made contingency plans to prepare for the pandemic.
Fourth, many firms have responded promptly and successfully, communicating accurate and timely information to their consumers and stakeholders and protecting employee and customer safety (Bernard et al., 2021). Finally, organizations have been evaluating their response to the pandemic, taking stock of their performance, and making necessary adjustments.
Determine the pros and cons of different channels of communication.
Communication methods have perks and downsides. Face-to-face contact is best since it allows for rapid feedback and sophisticated dialogues. Even though travel and gatherings can make it time-consuming and expensive (Cozzolino et al., 2019). Email is also convenient, cheap, and fast for sharing important information. One of the downsides of emails is that they can easily misinterpret mood and tone.
Telephone communication has the advantage of being immediate and allowing for the exchange of complex information, but it can be challenging to manage multiple conversations simultaneously (Cozzolino et al., 2019). Social media and online forums are great ways to spread information quickly and engage with many people, but they can be difficult to moderate and control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, organizations must recognize the differences between risk and crisis communication. Crisis communication is reactive, while risk communication is proactive. Each communication medium has merits and cons. Organizations must understand risk and crisis communication to predict, monitor, plan, respond, and analyze possible threats and crises.
References
Bernard, N. R., Basit, A., Sofija, E., Phung, H., Lee, J., Rutherford, S., … & Wiseman, N. (2021). Analysis of crisis communication by the Prime Minister of Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 62, 102375.
Cozzolino, D., Da Lio, B., Bacco, D., & Oxenløwe, L. K. (2019). High‐dimensional quantum communication: benefits, progress, and future challenges. Advanced Quantum Technologies, 2(12), 1900038.
Wang, Y., Hao, H., & Platt, L. S. (2021). We are examining government agencies’ and stakeholders’ risk and crisis communications during the early stages of COVID-19 on Twitter—computers in human behavior, 114, 106568.
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