Crisis Longevity in the Digital Age
What if the very forces that magnify a crisis in the public eye—namely round-the-clock news and social media—also hasten its disappearance from collective memory? In this paper, we weave together real-time market data, in-depth media analysis, and established crisis communication frameworks to reveal how rapid, high-stakes corporate scandals can flare up and then fade more quickly than ever before. Yet beneath the surface, reputational damage still lingers, placing a premium on strategic, transparent communication. By examining case studies across industries and crisis types, we uncover why today’s information overload might shorten a crisis’s most dramatic phase even as it requires organizations to work harder and longer to rebuild trust.
When Location Determines Response Strategy
In an era of globalization, corporations operate in a complex media and regulatory landscape. A crisis in one region does not automatically translate into reputational damage globally. How should companies tailor their crisis response based on the nature of the controversy? The level of public attention and perceived impact—determined by distance and salience—shapes whether companies should use moral messaging, technical justifications, or fact-based crisis responses.
Damage Control in Brussels
The European Commission plays a central role in EU governance, acting as both the executive body and a regulatory authority. Its legitimacy is built on trust, transparency, and adherence to ethical norms. However, political scandals can severely damage this legitimacy, triggering crises that require strategic communication and reputation management. This paper examines the EC's crisis communication strategy through two high-profile scandals: the Dalli Cash-for-Influence Scandal (2012) and the Barroso Revolving Doors Scandal (2016). Using five key crisis management indicators—speed, openness, rule application, tone, and reform engagement—this analysis assesses the effectiveness of the EC’s response and extracts key lessons for political crisis management.
Family Business in Crisis
Family businesses are uniquely positioned in the economy but face distinct challenges in crisis situations. This paper explores how proactive crisis prevention, including succession planning, governance structures, and effective communication, can help family businesses navigate complex situations, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Actionable insights and recommendations are offered to ensure resilience and continuity.