The dialogue with Phil Johnstone is an enlightening examination of the critical role of communications in the realm of global humanitarian assistance, particularly during crises. Phil shares his extensive experiences, having navigated the challenging landscapes of crisis response in various countries, including Nepal after the 2015 earthquake and more recently in Ukraine and Sudan.

Phil has recently launched his own podcast through Plant & Food Research, called Collab. Phil has recently launched his own podcast through Plant & Food Research, called Collab, which looks at global issues and trends in international development and humanitarian crisis response.

Phil's dual expertise as both a seasoned communicator and a former journalist enriches the conversation with Heather and Natalie of HMC, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in crisis communications. Phil articulates the necessity for clarity and authenticity in messaging, especially when addressing sensitive issues that affect vulnerable populations.

Throughout the episode, he highlights the importance of storytelling as an essential tool for engaging audiences and fostering empathy. By recounting vivid experiences from the field, Phil paints a picture of the stark realities faced by those impacted by disasters and conflicts, while also celebrating the resilience and determination of local communities. His narrative underscores the collaborative efforts of various humanitarian organizations, showcasing how effective communication can bridge gaps between aid providers and those in need. Moreover, Phil discusses the emotional challenges faced by communicators in such high-stakes environments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism and composure while dealing with distressing scenarios.

As the conversation concludes, Phil imparts valuable insights into the evolving landscape of communications in crisis situations, encouraging public relations professionals to adopt innovative strategies that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. He advocates for a focus on authenticity and the human element in storytelling, urging communicators to recognize the profound responsibility they bear in shaping narratives that can inspire action and support for humanitarian causes. Phil's reflections serve as both a source of inspiration and a call to action for those in the communications field to use their skills to effect meaningful change in the world.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• HMC
• Plant and Food Research
• BBC
• Merck & Co.
• World Vision New Zealand
• World Vision International
• International Federation of Red Cross
• Leprosy Mission NZ
• World Food Organization

Organisations today face a heightened risk of reputational damage due to an increasingly sensitive public that is quick to take offense at corporate actions and decisions.

Understanding the complex social, political, and environmental dynamics at play is essential for leaders looking to navigate this challenging landscape.

Claudia MacDonald of Mango Communications, Alan McDonald of EMA and Fred Russo of Botica Butler Raudon join HMC Managing Director Heather Claycomb for this fast-paced episode.

This episode dives into the importance of being prepared and having a proactive approach to communication, emphasising the need for businesses to cultivate situational awareness and trust in their values. Our panel of PR experts discusses real-world examples and offers actionable insights on how to effectively manage public perception and mitigate risks. By integrating strategic communication into business operations, organisations can better engage with their communities and safeguard their reputations.

The episode presents a comprehensive exploration of the evolving landscape in which organisations operate, highlighting the critical role of public relations in managing reputational risks. As community dynamics shift, fueled by growing distrust in institutions and the rapid dissemination of information through social media, businesses must navigate a delicate balancing act. The discussion features insights from top PR leaders who emphasise the importance of awareness and preparation in the face of potential crises. They stress that organisations need to maintain a proactive stance, recognising that seemingly benign actions can provoke unexpected backlash from the community. By cultivating a culture of transparency and open dialogue, organisations can better anticipate public reactions and manage their reputations effectively.

Throughout the conversation, the panelists share compelling examples of businesses that have successfully navigated crises by adhering to their core values and maintaining a clear narrative. They discuss the pitfalls of self-censorship and the tendency to overreact to public criticism, advocating instead for a measured approach that focuses on building goodwill and trust within the community. The importance of having a crisis communication plan in place is underscored, with a call for organisations to practice these plans regularly and to involve communication experts in their decision-making processes. This strategic approach is essential in a landscape where public perception can shift rapidly, and where the consequences of inaction can be severe.

The episode culminates in a discussion about the future of reputation management in an increasingly complex world. The panelists argue that organisations must broaden their perspective to include social, political, and environmental factors that may influence their operations and reputations. By integrating these considerations into their risk assessments and decision-making processes, businesses can better navigate the challenges of today’s media environment. The leaders conclude with a powerful reminder: investing in reputation management is not just about avoiding crisis; it’s about building a resilient and trusted brand that can thrive amidst change. The insights shared in this episode offer valuable guidance for business leaders striving to uphold their reputations in a time of heightened scrutiny and expectation.

Takeaways:

• Organisations must understand the heightened risk of community backlash against corporate actions today.
• A comprehensive risk register should include social and political issues affecting reputations.
• Proactive communication strategies can help mitigate potential reputational damage during crises.
• Companies need to prepare for swift social media reactions and misinformation campaigns....

This is a CRUNCH 'small bite' - a quick tip for our followers and fans.

Effective communication is crucial for businesses looking to build trust and enhance their brand reputation. This episode of CRUNCH highlights essential foundational actions that every organisation should take to ensure their communications are effective and resonate with their audience.

Heather and Emma discuss the importance of keeping communication channels, such as websites and social media, updated and engaging, as well as maintaining direct communication with customers through personalised newsletters. They emphasise that even during challenging economic times, maintaining a consistent buzz about your organisation is vital for staying competitive.

Additionally, the episode underscores the significance of internal communications, urging businesses to keep their staff informed and motivated to foster a positive work environment that can drive success.

The latest discussion on CRUNCH highlights the critical need for businesses to revisit and reinforce their communication strategies, especially in the face of economic challenges.

Heather and Emma delve into how a stagnant online presence can suggest neglect, which can detrimentally affect a brand's reputation. As both hosts point out, regular updates and active engagement are pivotal in ensuring that a business does not appear dormant in the eyes of its audience.

Additionally, the conversation shifts to the role of direct communication with customers, notably through e-newsletters. Heather highlights how these tools serve not only as a means of keeping clients informed but also as a powerful way to generate referrals and maintain a steady flow of business. Emma adds to this by discussing the significance of personalising content to enhance engagement and relevance, thereby turning these communications into valuable business assets. They remind listeners that effective communication is not just outward-facing; it also includes internal communications aimed at keeping staff informed and motivated, especially during tough times. This multifaceted approach to communication is essential for building trust and sustaining a positive brand image, reinforcing the notion that businesses must actively nurture their communications to thrive.

Takeaways:

• Every business must regularly update their communication channels like websites and social media to maintain credibility.
• Direct communication with customers, such as through e-newsletters, is crucial for ongoing engagement and referrals.
• Personalising content in communications enhances effectiveness and helps maintain customer relationships during tough times.
• Keeping a buzz around your organisation, especially during economic downturns, is essential for staying relevant.
• Measuring the impact of PR and communications is possible and necessary for achieving business goals.
• Internal communication with staff is key to maintaining morale and ensuring they act as brand ambassadors.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• HMC
• MailChimp