Being the bearer of bad news

For everyone’s sake, communicators can, and should, shine in times of crisis

If it’s not already ugly where you work, it’s going to get ugly.

If it is already ugly, it’s going to get worse.

Now is your time to be a communications star and strategic partner to executives, HR and employees.

I’ve been an employee in the gossip pit and a vice president knowing people in my own department will be laid off.

What I’ve learned from both experiences is that employees need to hear from their employer now more than ever.

Historically, this is when many organizations clam up. Traditionally, executives want to say as little as possible so as not to cause fear. They also walk the line of not wanting to say anything that violates disclosure laws. And often bad news and potential layoffs are moving targets with issues changing daily before the axe finally falls.

My experience says employees begin to gossip more and rumors spread faster when times are tough and executives fail to talk. So how can you be a communications star? Do these five things: