Public Relations Manager how-to

How to Respond to a PR Crisis in the First Hour

The first hour shapes the story.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

The first hour shapes the story. In short: gather; convene; draft, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Gather facts.

  2. Convene the crisis team.

  3. Draft a holding statement.

  4. Notify key stakeholders.

  5. Monitor coverage.

  6. Update often.

Safety reminders for public relations managers

  • Follow disclosure rules
  • Protect confidential info
  • Avoid misleading claims
  • Follow fundraising ethics

Earned media · Owned media · Paid media · Press release · Media kit · Talking points: see the full public relations manager glossary.

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