While we don’t know when or what it will be, it’s inherent to policing that at some point we will have to communicate with the public through crisis or critical incident. This intermediate crisis communications course for law enforcement leadership and Public Information Officers dives into the timely topic of contributing to the narrative through social media and media relations when communication is critical. Day 1 focuses on the use of social media and includes case studies and practicals that allow the student to immediately put learned skills to use. Day 2 is an overview of media relations, from writing a press release that is relatable to setting up and managing a press conference. By the end of this course, students should feel confident in managing the public communication strategy when it counts most.

TOPICS INCLUDE: Overview of major social media platforms in crisis communication; common pitfalls to avoid; managing the negative social media environment; case study of critical incident communication; best practices in crisis communication; writing a relatable press release; managing media relationships; prepping for the on-camera interview; handling difficult questions; managing the press conference; includes a mock press conference practical.

This intermediate crisis communications course for law enforcement leadership and Public Information Officers dives into the timely topic of contributing to the narrative through social media and media relations when communication is critical. Day 1 focuses on the use of social media and includes case studies and practicals that allow the student to immediately put learned skills to use. Day 2 is an overview of media relations, from writing a press release that is relatable to setting up and managing a press conference. By the end of this course, students should feel confident in managing the public communication strategy when it counts most.

Instructor: Chief Christopher Mannino serves as Chief of Police of a Chicago-area police department with over 23 years of law enforcement experience. A 2009 graduate of the FBI National Academy where his studies focused on Communication and Public Relations for Law Enforcement, he also holds a Master’s Degree in Political and Justice Studies. His public relations efforts have garnered frequent positive attention in the Chicago news market and beyond, where the mid-size police department with which he serves is known regionally for their positive social media outreach and frequent featuring in traditional news for positive stories.