How to Handle a Panic Attack with Precision Communications
This Week …
Beyond the Forecast: How One Meteorologist Navigated a Live On-Air Scare
Before We Go …
1. Clarity Rating Scale: Comms Lessons from an On Air Panic Attack
Scenario:
Your are a meteorologist, and you have a history of panic attacks. The very place you need to work — the green screen — is a trigger for you.
On the Hot Seat:
This scenario was reality for Nate Byrne of ABC News Australia. How does he and his colleagues handle his personal situation and maintain professionalism during a live tv broadcast?
Watch here: https://www.tiktok.com/@abcnewsaus/video/7402463206846844178
Here’s analysis of the various ways Nate’s handling of his public-facing health episodes leverage strategic communications practices:
Addressing Stigmatized Topics Head-On
Nate exemplifies how to approach sensitive topics by providing clear, accessible, and non-judgmental information.
Proactive Crisis Communication Preparedness
Nate, and his colleagues, were prepared. Nate helped equipped his newsroom with the knowledge and tools on how to handle a potential panic attack before it happens.
He wrote this article, referenced immediately by the anchor.
Building Trust Through Transparency
Nate’s transparent approach to discussing panic attacks models how organizations can foster trust by being open about challenges and providing clear guidance.
Empathy in Communication
Nate’s colleague’s exudes empathy while smoothly offering practical advice ensures the audience that he, and others, are supported.
This on-air incident helps reinforce organizational values. By addressing panic attacks in a supportive and informative way, the news team reinforces values of mental health awareness and prioritizes the well-being of its employees.
Education and Training as a Preventative Tool
Educating employees about potential challenges and how to handle them can prevent issues from becoming crises. This news team was ready, and normalized what could have been a crisis. Instead, colleagues supported colleagues and gave a public service announcement on panic attacks.
The New York Times expanded news coverage and offered additional advice for those who experience panic attacks:
Nate’s actions serve as a professional blueprint for professionals and organizations looking to develop communication strategies around sensitive topics, emphasizing the importance of proactive, empathetic, and transparent communication.
Clarity Rating Score for Nate’s navigation of on-air panic attacks: 5
The Clarity Rating measures effective communications on a scale of 1 to 5 using this criteria:
1: Blurry, Indistinct
2: Slightly Focused, Needs Adjustment
3: Moderately Focused, Fair Clarity
4: Well-Focused, High Clarity
5: Razor-Sharp Focus, Crystal Clear (Are we clear?)
2. Before We Go …
NYT: Social Influencers at the White House for its first conference on the creator economy:
The president lauded them as a “breakthrough in how we communicate.”