Crisis Communications Plan Template

A clear plan structure so your response is fast and consistent.

Define the plan structure

Start with scope, objectives, and activation triggers. Keep the plan short enough to use under pressure.

Long plans are rarely followed in real crises.

Clarify roles and approvals

List the decision makers, communications leads, and legal approvals needed for statements.

Clear roles prevent delays when speed is critical.

Prepare holding statements

Draft short holding statements for likely scenarios. These should acknowledge the issue and promise updates.

Prepared statements reduce the risk of silence or poor first responses.

Run simulation drills

Hold a short tabletop exercise each quarter to test the plan.

Simulations reveal gaps before a real crisis hits.