Mkula Dennis

How To Communicate With Employees During A Cyber Hack

Many companies are taking precautions encrypting data, working with security firms, changing passwords often they may be neglecting an important piece of the puzzle. In today’s environment, crisis preparation for cyber security issues is a necessity, and companies must consider internal communication implications.

To help with this inventory, here is a series of internal communications guidelines and questions that can help you to avoid unhappy employees, computer hacks.

1. BE PROACTIVE WHEN COMMUNICATING WITH EMPLOYEES

If there has been a breach, let your employees know immediately, and be prepared with instructions on how they can help minimize the impact. They need to hear about the issue from management—preferably before they hear through the gossip mill or, worse yet, the media.

2. BE OPEN AND HONEST WITH EMPLOYEES

At the beginning, you might not know the full impact of the breach. Tell your employees what you do know, and do not hide important details from them. They will find out eventually, and it will be harder to regain their trust if you haven’t been open and honest.

3. COMMUNICATE FREQUENTLY

Employees will be understandably nervous and upset if their private information is stolen from company computers. In the hours and days immediately following the hack, communicate frequently. Even if there isn’t new information, tell them you are working diligently to repair the issue.

4. EMPOWER LEADERS TO COMMUNICATE WITH THEIR EMPLOYEES

Provide talking points to mid- and lower-level managers and leaders so that they can also communicate about the issue. Employees often trust their manager more than more senior executives and will appreciate having local communication.

5. ENCOURAGE TWO-WAY COMMUNICATIONS

While this might not be possible immediately following a security attack, make sure there is a venue for employees to voice their questions and concerns. If you provide an email address or phone number, there must be someone on the other end who is quickly responding and has up-to-date information to share.