Although society relies a great deal on traditional crisis communication resources such as TV and Radio, Social Media platforms are becoming a major tool for communicating emergency information to clients, friends, colleagues and mass groups of people in general during a disaster or crisis.  Social Media allows instantaneous access to your target audience.  Mobile Apps and Social Media are tied for 4^th place for the most popular source of emergency information during a disaster.  According to an American Red Cross survey in June of 2012, 1 in 5 Americans have used and app to retrieve emergency info.

When interacting with your target audience during emergencies you should remember to express empathy while demonstrating competence.  You should also display honesty and openness about the situation and show commitment to helping them by providing pertinent information and useful tools regarding the situation at hand.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Posting on Social Media during a Crisis

DO	DON’T
Provide accurate and clear information	Post without checking if the info is current
Provide action steps	Use overly defensive or angry language
Time & date-stamp critical information	Don’t over reassure
Include hashtags that people are using for that particular event	Embellish the truth or state any facts that you’re unsure of

 

Even if you’re new to social media, you should not be intimidated by it.  It is a useful tool in connecting with your clients and providing important information, especially during a crisis.

To learn more about New Empire Group, Ltd. visit our website, www.NewEmpireGroup.com or find us on Facebook, LinkedIn & Twitter!

Check out the great Insurance Programs for Condominium Insurance, Cooperative Insurance, Apartment Insurance and Property Manager’s Insurance that New Empire Group, Ltd. offers!