As 2024 draws to an end, with nights growing longer and colder, there’s festive magic in the air. Homes are getting decked out with decorations and twinkling lights to provide the perfect backdrop for the holiday season.

The sound of carols and traditional songs remind us of cherished memories and inspire a sense of togetherness and goodwill. However, the quality of these enchanting sounds is only as good as the musicians having their instruments finely tuned, knowing their sheet notes and cue of when to play – and being  adaptable to correct any unexpected musical mishaps that may occur! This requires extensive preparation, co-ordination and rehearsal to ensure they give their best performance.

The holiday season is also a time where many industries shut down, and staff take a well-earned break, to spend time with family and friends. For the energy industry, it remains business as usual, with  producers, transporters, suppliers and control centres working round-the-clock to deliver electricity and gas to our homes; ensuring everyone can enjoy the festivities.

Just as musicians rehearse for a flawless festive performance, the energy industry meticulously prepares to handle expected and unexpected events; ensuring a reliable energy supply throughout the festive season.

This includes having trained spokespeople who can react quickly to events and manage close scrutiny from the likes of media, politicians, regulators, customers and  local community in the event of  a crisis. This can be a daunting task – particularly for those who have recently joined the energy industry, or been promoted to operate in this role and:

• show concern for personal safety and the safeguard of assets, facilities and environment
• provide accurate, open and timely information about a crisis
• maintain a positive corporate reputation and strengthen trust with key audiences

All this at very short notice, and in front of the media who are itching to ask questions on every aspect of the incident and will immediately broadcast your response! A spokesperson can make or break people’s perception of organization during a crisis situation.

If you need support with your crisis communications preparation, Spoken Word is on hand. We are a global media, crisis communications and presentation training company. Our trainers can provide specialist crisis spokesperson training, strategic input, and an extra pair of hands in the event of an emergency.

For more information on how we can support you to play the right tune and be prepared for the holiday season, contact Dave Scallan on: .