Handout photos show authors Julia Smith, , the managing director at Finch Media, and Kylie McMullan, principal of Finch Media.Kylie McMullan is the principal of Finch Media and is a communications strategy expert who has worked on a number of issues and recalls across a number of industries including healthcare and consumer packaged goods.
As concerns grip the world regarding COVID-19, companies are unsure of how to communicate, with both internal and external stakeholders. Declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, COVID-19 – with all its uncertainty – has stopped the entire globe with simple questions, such as: What do we do now? And, how do we stay safe?In times like this, where we don’t know what to say, it is often of the utmost importance that we step up to the podium anyway.
interaction is good. Speak to key stakeholders to gain feedback. What are they worried about? How can you provide them with confidence in your business and how can you assist them? Set up robust social listening and media monitoring systems to stay educated on the outbreak and stakeholder reactions. Also, listen to possible solutions they have. For example, academic institutions are expanding online learning opportunities. Filmmakers are opting for virtual festivals.
Over-communicate. Provide ongoing updates to employees around any potential impacts. What are you proactively doing? Don’t assume employees know how you’re prioritizing their health. If you have a large contractor workforce, ensure you’re also communicating with them in a timely manner.