Course Content
Module 1: Introduction to Corporate Risk Communication
Welcome to the first module of our course on ‘Mastering Corporate Risk Communication.’ I’m Marc Guerriot, and I’m excited to guide you through this journey where we’ll uncover the essential aspects of risk communication and its pivotal role in modern organisations.
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Module 2: Understanding and Establishing a Risk Culture
In this module, we’ll explore the concept of risk culture and how you can build it within your organisation. Establishing a risk culture is about integrating risk management into your company’s DNA—into the very fabric of how things are done.
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Module 3: Communication Strategy for Change
In this module, we’ll explore how to develop a comprehensive communication strategy for managing risks in your organisation. Effective communication doesn’t just happen—it requires careful planning and alignment with your organisation’s overall objectives.
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Module 4: Managing Critical Incidents
In this module, we’ll explore the essential components of managing critical incidents, starting with crisis management plans. A crisis management plan is your organisation’s blueprint for how to respond when things go wrong. It outlines the procedures, roles, and responsibilities that ensure a coordinated and effective response to crises.
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Module 5: Creating Quality Content for Risk Communication
In this module, we’ll shift our focus to the art of creating quality content for risk communication. Whether you’re crafting a report, an email, or a public statement, the clarity of your message is paramount.
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Module 6: Communicating with Stakeholders
In this module, we’ll focus on one of the most crucial aspects of risk communication: engaging with stakeholders. Your stakeholders are the individuals and groups who have an interest in, or are affected by, your organisation’s actions. This could include employees, customers, suppliers, regulators, investors, and even the general public.
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Module 7: Training and Skill Development
Training is the backbone of effective risk management. It’s through training that your employees gain the knowledge and skills they need to identify, assess, and respond to risks in real-time. In this module, we’ll focus on how to design training programs that are both comprehensive and engaging.
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Module 8: The End
In this module, we’ll bring everything we’ve learned together by analysing real-world case studies. Case studies are invaluable because they provide practical examples of how organisations have applied risk communication principles in real situations. They also highlight the challenges and successes that come with managing risks.
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Protected: Risk culture and communications – KRisk RiskCom

 

Communicating During a Crisis

 

In our previous lesson, we emphasised the importance of having a structured crisis management plan. In this section, we’ll focus on one of its most critical components: communication.

Effective communication during a crisis can mean the difference between a controlled situation and a full-blown disaster. It is vital to communicate swiftly, clearly, and consistently to shape perception, share accurate information, and uphold trust among stakeholders.

The first step in crisis communication is to provide a rapid initial response. This response should acknowledge the incident, outline the actions being taken, and reassure stakeholders that the situation is under control.

Here are the key steps to successful crisis communication:

 

  1. Initial Response

    As soon as a crisis is identified, issue a prompt initial statement. Keep it brief and based on verified facts. Acknowledge the incident and confirm that your organisation is taking immediate steps.

  2. Regular Updates

    Keep stakeholders informed as the situation develops. Provide timely updates about what is happening, the actions being taken, and any next steps. Transparency builds trust.

  3. Appropriate Communication Channels

    Select the most suitable channels for each audience. Use press releases and social media for the public and media; emails or internal briefings may be more effective for staff.

  4. Tailored Messaging

    Different groups will have different concerns. Tailor your messages accordingly. Customers may want to know their data is secure, while regulators might require detailed reports.

  5. Maintain Transparency

    Be honest about what you know—and what you don’t. It is better to acknowledge uncertainty than to risk spreading incorrect information. Openness helps to preserve credibility.

 

Effective communication in a crisis isn’t just about addressing the immediate situation—it’s also about safeguarding your organisation’s long-term reputation and stakeholder relationships. By being transparent, proactive, and responsive, you position your organisation to emerge stronger.