Coalitions: Because begging during times of crisis is a bad look 👀
In public affairs and communications, timing is everything, and so is trust. One of the smartest investments a company or organization can make is building a coalition of supporters BEFORE any crisis, controversy, or campaign arises.
Too often, organizations scramble to findallies when facing a public threat such as a policy proposal, regulatorychallenge, or reputational issue. However, coalitions are most effective whenthey are developed during periods of calm, not chaos. Think of it as aninsurance policy for your public image. The time you spend buildingrelationships today could be the key to surviving tomorrow's disaster.
Consider an example of a local company ororganization that suddenly faced a legislative proposal threatening itsoperations (in Alaska, this is a target-rich environment.) Because it hadalready built a strong network of local business leaders, labor representatives,and community advocates, the company was able to mobilize credible third-partyvoices almost immediately. These allies wrote op-eds, spoke at public meetings,and responded to misinformation on social media. As a result, the proposal stalled,and the company maintained its good reputation.
From a communications standpoint, coalitions serve as trusted voices. Their independent perspective can shed light on anissue when it might be risky or inappropriate to speak for yourself. In adigital environment driven by fast news cycles and the potential for viraloutrage, being able to immediately tap into supportive, respected messengerscan make the difference between operational stability and reputational damage.
No one likes a last-minute friend request
Ready to make friends? Start by identifyingindividuals and organizations who share your values or interests. These mightinclude industry peers and colleagues, civic leaders, nonprofit groups, orgrassroots advocates. Reach out with a genuine offer to connect, not just whenyou need something. Listen, collaborate, and support their goals, too.Coalitions are a two-way street.
Attend community events, host roundtables, leadtours of your facilities or join coalitions led by others. Keep the lines ofcommunication open with regular check-ins and updates. Offer value where youcan, and invite feedback to keep relationships strong.
A coalition is built on trust and sharedpurpose. The stronger it is in quiet times, the louder it will speak for you intimes of need.
