The Communication Role of Local Government Leaders in Crisis Management: A Synthesis of Concepts and Practices

Abstract

The objective of this academic article is: 1) to synthesize concepts, theories, and research related to the role of local administrative organization (LAO) leaders in crisis communication; and 2) to compile and present appropriate practices or a model for LAO leaders in managing communication during a crisis.This study was conducted by analyzing relevant documentary data to summarize recommendations concerning the communication role of LAO leaders in crisis management. Expected Benefits: 1) Academic knowledge on crisis communication; and 2) Appropriate practices or a model for the communication role of LAO leaders in crisis management. Key Findings: The communication role of LAO leaders in crisis management comprises three phases: 1) Pre-Crisis Communication: The leader acts as the policy setter and planner for crisis communication, which includes risk and stakeholder analysis, building a digital organizational foundation, and promoting transparency and good governance. 2) During-Crisis Communication: The leader serves as the key spokesperson and director of the vital message, involving being the central source of information and the main spokesperson, and communicating with empathy and accountability. 3) Post-Crisis Communication: The leader is the coordinator of recovery and the party responsible for community improvement, which involves continuously communicating the recovery plan, communicating to foster learning, and evaluating communication effectiveness. Principle-Based Recommendations: 1) Speed and transparency are the core pillars of crisis communication; 2) Use a two-way communication strategy to build cooperation and trust. Policy-Based Recommendations: 1) Establish a policy mandating the leader as the single-point commander for communication; 2) Invest in building a systematic digital organizational foundation and a communication recovery plan.