Construction Law

Why Crisis Communication Is More Important Than Ever featured image

Why Crisis Communication Is More Important Than Ever

It’s safe to say that the entire construction industry is experiencing a crisis. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread across the country, causing widespread delays and construction disputes. Massive construction disputes stemming from COVID-19-related delays will only be under increased scrutiny considering that any news related to the virus is given coverage. 

In this brief article, we discuss the importance of crisis communication during a construction dispute. Now more than ever, construction companies have to take precautions when speaking to the media or sharing messaging online. For assistance resolving your dispute and keeping matters private, consult a Nashville construction dispute lawyer with Cotney Attorneys & Consultants. 

What Are You Going to Say? 

If your company is involved in a dispute, especially one caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, you will sooner or later be asked by the media for comment. What are you going to say? Will you simply ignore the request? As a construction law firm, we strongly recommend having a crisis communication plan in place. This plan should consist of having a single spokesperson represent the company when speaking publicly about the dispute. Your spokesperson should be backed by a trusted team that can help craft the tone and message you want presented to the public. Any statements, interviews, or comments — anything released by your company in connection with the crisis — should be carefully considered by you and your team. 

Related: Advice for Construction Firms Involved in a Dispute

Think about it. If a potential client was reading a news article and your company’s comments came up shrugging away concerns, how do you think they would react? If you’re having trouble answering these questions, our law office offers invaluable consulting services. 

Related: 5 Tips for Keeping Disputes Out of Court

Hoping for the Best, Preparing for the Worst 

The above illustrates why we so often recommend requiring that alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods be written into construction contracts. ADR methods are effective for resolving disputes in private and ensuring that information that could damage a company’s reputation doesn’t reach the public. Remember, your goal isn’t just to say the right thing at the right time; it’s to resolve your dispute and get to a point where your company can move on from this crisis unscathed. 

At Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, we understand that remaining successful in the construction industry means not only reacting to crises but planning for and taking precautions against crises. That’s why we offer invaluable consulting, contract drafting and reviewing, and dispute resolution services. No matter what your company is going through, we can help. For a Nashville construction dispute attorney that will stand by you in times of uncertainty, partner with the experienced attorneys from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants. 

If you would like to speak with a Nashville construction dispute lawyer, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.