Crisis Communications: A Casebook Approach

by Kathleen Fearn-Banks

Crisis Communications presents case studies of organizational and individual problems that may become crises, and the communication responses to these situations. Helping professionals prepare for crises and develop communications plans, the third edition of this essential reference explores critical issues concerning how organizations, companies, and individuals communicate with the news media, employees, and consumers in times of crisis. Author Kathleen Fearn-Banks addresses how to choose the best possible words to convey a message, the best method for delivering the message, and the precise and most appropriate audience, in addition to illustrating how to avoid potential mismanagement.

Cases added to this edition include Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans, AIDS in Africa, and the Columbine High School shooting tragedy. Additional features of the text An accessible, practical, and extremely popular casebook, this text is a 'must read' for students in crisis communication and management, public relations and business/management. It is also an invaluable resource for professionals and business managers in handling crises.

Genres: Communication, Nonfiction

408 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2007

Reviews

[Cheri Felix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an updated version of this textbook which also lists Kevin Kawamoto as a co-author. Sixth Edition.

I am using this book for a Crisis Comm class I am teaching the fall (which really is summer). I wanted to read it before the semester started because once it starts it’s like a roller coaster that never ends (in the best way). It’s a privilege to have the time to read a book before using it in a class.

The book is skilled at using case studies that are relevant and interesting. It was poignant to read what it’s like for the company/organization on the back end when crisis occurs (finger in the chili anyone!??).
I found myself transported emotionally to some of our toughest times (Columbine, 9/11) and also inspired by peoples actions (Gander, Newfoundland/US Airways flight).

I’m excited to use this book in class!

[Jamie Mobley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really interesting for a textbook. One of the few I’ve read cover to cover. The section on Hurricane Katrina was particularly interesting to me because I live in New Orleans, though I didn’t until ten years after that storm. It was very helpful to read the case studies and learn what working PR professionals did during their crises.

[Catherine Bruzdzinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for those wanting to learn how to manage different types of emergencies or crises. Easy to use and read from along with a great study tool for those studying communications, business, and public relations.

[Kendall Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for class and throughly enjoyed this textbook. It’s one of the few I actually finished start to end and there’s a lot of great material for aspiring journalists, strategic communicators, and public affairs officers.

[Katelynn Blackwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

it's good, but it drags on much longer than it should

and its uniformity ends up being a fault once it gets ridiculously repetitive

[Ed Barks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The real value of this book is found in the appendices. Fearn-Banks includes sample crisis communications plans for large companies, non-profit organizations, and small businesses. Of course, you need to tailor the draft to your specific situation, but the templates can short circuit a lot of initial work.

[Missy Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

I shouldn't have marked this book as read. I'll always read it, whenever I need to. It's a terrific reference.

[Bjarne Siewertsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of great examples - but several of them had to many personal stories that did not contribute to the point.
Actually a bit of a disappointing read.