Crisis Response: Myths, Exceptions, Realities

November 18, 2010

Presented by PRSA Western District

Crisis Response: Myths, Exceptions, Realities

We will all inevitably encounter crisis communications situations as PR professionals. While standard rules of practice and common advice may help you navigate an issue successfully, the reality is that every scenario presents its own unique challenges and nuances. What better way to prepare for the unexpected - the myths, exceptions and realities - than to consider the scenarios?

In this program, crisis PR expert Bob Conrad, MA, APR outlines a step-by-step set of response scenarios for crisis situations. As a seasoned crisis PR navigator, Bob will also explain how many times the "rules" for responding during a crisis can actually exacerbate harm for organizations and their publics, contrary to popular communications tactics and common advice frequently given during crisis events.

Topics and scenarios discussed will challenge commonly used responses, such as:

• It’s best to get ahead of an issue
• Organizations should respond quickly and publicly
• Saying "no comment" is one of the worst things you can do
• An organization with a poor reputation will suffer from poor crisis management

This presentation is based on empirical evidence and Bob's more than 10 years of experience spanning floods, fires, whistleblowers, budget cuts, activist attacks, disease outbreaks, human-animal chimeras, media misinformation, biotechnology, natural resources, environmental issues, animal rights activists and a number of other public relations challenges.

WHEN:
Thursday, November 18, 2010
11:30 a.m. - Noon: Networking and Registration
Noon - 12:30 p.m.: Luncheon
12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.: Program

NEW LOCATION:
Seasons 52 at South Coast Plaza
3333 Bristol Avenue, Suite #2802
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

MEMBERS ONLY EXCLUSIVE:
OC/PRSA members in attendance at this month's luncheon will be entered into a drawing during the event for a chance to win a copy of Bob Conrad's book, The Good, The Bad, The Spin.

COST WITH RESERVATIONS BY NOVEMBER 12:
$30 member • $45 non-member • $25 student

** Space is limited, so register early to secure your spot! **

After November 12, there is an additional $5 charge for walk-ins and late reservations, and no refunds are available.

RESERVATIONS:
Please register and prepay below using PayPal (credit card processing fee additional), or send an email followed by a check payment to OC/PRSA, PO Box 422, East Irvine, CA 92650.