In times of crisis, PR practitioners become leaders. Advisers look to us to disseminate information to the public and craft strategic plans to remediate tough circumstances. Learning from one another’s experiences will in turn strengthen our profession.
Case in point, this weekend the attacks on Mumbai left India devastated. An AdAge article on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, recapped the unfortunate event.
Terrorists attacked ten targets in the center of India's financial, marketing, media and film industries. Three days of fighting between members of an Islamist group called the Deccan Mujahedeen and India's police and military resulted in 179 people dead. Most of the fighting took place at the city's premier hotels, the Oberoi and the Taj Mahal, which are frequented by foreigners.
With these terrorists’ attacks looming, the future of India’s tourism is ominous. Last year India attracted about five million tourists. This year they will see a fraction of the amount. Aware that airlines are already cutting flights into Mumbai, India's tourist board is working on a "repair" campaign to lure visitors back, said Suman Srivastava, Euro RSCG's Mumbai-based CEO, India.
A PRWeek article said Sheila Donnelly & Associates, a U.S. marketing and public relations firm, is on board to assist The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower.
Reacting quickly, PR professionals must notify the media and take responsibility for the problem at hand. Proactive planning and accountability will add to any PR person’s credibility. How one handles a crisis can make or break their career.
What do you think about the actions PR practitioners have taken regarding violence in Mumbai? Do you feel the situation was handled appropriately? Would you have done anything differently?
As well if you’ve ever encountered a crisis in the profession – please share your past experiences with us. What worked or didn’t work for you? Do you have any tips for the future PR industry leaders? We would appreciate your thoughts and insightful advice.
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