Keeping Cool on the Hot Seat: Dealing Effectively with the Media in Times of Crisis

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Summary: Takes the fear out of the topic
Review: The author's friendly and engaging style helps you feel like you have your own personal coach to get you through what might otherwise be a nightmare. Her advice on preparation (and examples of lack thereof!) hits the bullseye for this topic and many others, as well. Speaking from my own technical background, I can't recommend this book enough to engineers, scientists, land use planners, and others who may find themselves "on the hot seat".

Rating:
Summary: GREAT "How-To" Guide for Communications Professionals
Review: This book is a clear, concise read on handling the media during a crisis - and how to come out a winner. At just under 200 pages, it's packed with more useful info than a book 3x its size.
The one thing that really stands out is Hoffman's clear understanding in all communications - know who your audience is and speak directly to them - no matter what the medium. This is NOT a "How-To Spin" book - but a "'How-To' put the facts out there honestly and in the best possible light" book.
I recommend it for ALL folks in the executive levels in corporate America as well as those in PR, communications, Marketing, or agency work.

Rating:
Summary: Keeping Cool on the Hot Seat
Review: Very well written. Judy has personnaly been on the "Hot Seat" before, and writes with a huge amount of experience coming from her years in the chemical industry. I found her chapter #18 (Being Prepared For The Most Likely Questions) to be superb, and Chapter #4 (The Value of a Crisis Communication Plan) to be a wake-up call to all executives - not just Communications Directors. I have been in the "Hot Seat" position before, and Judy's advice is right on the mark.