If you’re briefing a spokesperson before an interview in a crisis situation, there is a high chance that you’ve got a lot to juggle.
You’re probably managing multiple communications to people inside and outside the organisation while responding to a fast-changing situation in a swirl of facts and rumours.
So, to get the most out of your time and support your spokesperson in this really challenging environment, these are my top tips:
Top tips for briefing your CEO / spokesperson in a crisis.
- Block out time for rehearsal interviews. I promise you they will thank you for it.
- Walk through some physical prep so that they can limber up.
- Run practice questions which probe around rumour and speculation.
- Build in comfort breaks, a gulp of water, a snack – especially if they’ve got multiple interviews.
- Pinpoint a clear interview entrance and exit strategy, especially if things run over.
These are the things your spokesperson needs from you to help them give their best performance
