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INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Describe a time when you had to handle a crisis communication situation. How did you manage communication with internal and external stakeholders?

General Counsel Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to handle a crisis communication situation. How did you manage communication with internal and external stakeholders?

Sample answer to the question

A crisis communication situation I handled was when our company faced a major data breach. Internally, I immediately gathered a cross-functional team to develop a communication plan. We created a clear and concise message to inform employees about the breach, the steps we were taking to address it, and the measures they could take to protect themselves. Externally, I worked closely with our PR team to craft a public statement that reassured customers and stakeholders of our commitment to their privacy and security. We also proactively reached out to affected customers to offer support and assistance. Throughout the crisis, I ensured regular updates were provided to both internal and external stakeholders to maintain transparency and trust.

A more solid answer

In a recent data breach crisis, I took immediate action to handle the communication with internal and external stakeholders. Internally, I assembled a cross-functional team consisting of IT, legal, and HR professionals to assess the situation and develop a plan. We drafted a clear and concise employee communication that addressed the breach, the steps being taken to mitigate it, and the precautions employees should take. To ensure effective communication, we conducted a live virtual town hall where employees could ask questions and voice concerns. Externally, I worked closely with our PR team to craft a public statement that expressed our commitment to customer privacy and security. We proactively reached out to affected customers, offering support and guidance. I personally led weekly meetings with our executive team and key stakeholders to provide updates, address concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to our communication strategy. By maintaining open lines of communication and demonstrating transparency, we were able to restore trust and minimize reputational damage.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer includes specific details and examples to demonstrate the candidate's skills and experience. It highlights the candidate's ability to assemble a cross-functional team, develop communication plans, conduct virtual town halls, and lead meetings with executives and stakeholders. However, it could benefit from providing more information about the candidate's problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

An exceptional answer

During a data breach crisis, I efficiently managed communication with internal and external stakeholders to minimize the impact on our company's reputation and maintain trust. Internally, I immediately formed a crisis response team consisting of IT, legal, HR, and PR professionals. We conducted a thorough investigation to determine the scope and severity of the breach, while concurrently developing a comprehensive communication plan. This plan included employee notifications, press releases, customer outreach, and social media management. I personally crafted and reviewed all communication materials to ensure accuracy, consistency, and empathy. Recognizing the importance of timely communication, we developed an internal communication timeline and provided regular updates to employees through various channels, such as email, intranet, and town hall meetings. Externally, we swiftly drafted a public statement that emphasized our commitment to customer data protection and outlined the immediate steps we were taking to address the breach. We proactively reached out to affected customers, offering credit monitoring services and personalized support. Additionally, I led weekly meetings with our executive team, board members, and legal counsel to keep everyone informed, address concerns, and guide decision-making. By effectively managing crisis communication, we were able to mitigate reputational damage, maintain customer confidence, and implement long-term security enhancements.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates the candidate's strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, ability to work under pressure, and attention to detail. It provides specific details about the candidate's role in forming a crisis response team, conducting investigations, and developing comprehensive communication plans. The answer also highlights the candidate's attention to detail by mentioning their personal review of all communication materials. Overall, the answer showcases the candidate's expertise and proficiency in crisis communication management.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with crisis communication best practices and frameworks.
  • Stay updated on current industry trends and potential crises that may occur in your field.
  • Develop strong interpersonal and leadership skills to effectively manage cross-functional teams.
  • Practice crafting clear and concise messages in high-pressure situations.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Attention to detail

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