Expert urges manufacturers on effective crisis management, conflict resolution
Public Relations Consultant Mrs Tolulope Olorundero has urged Nigerian manufacturers to adopt strategies for effective crisis management and conflict resolution to maintain a positive corporate image and market share.
Olorundero gave the advice on Wednesday during a webinar organised by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).
The theme of the event is “Leveraging Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution in Building Corporate Image”.
Olorundero, also Principal Consultant at Mosron Communications, noted that crises, whether internal or external, must be resolved promptly to enhance the organisation’s reputation.
According to her, effective crisis management and conflict resolution are not just reactive measures but strategic imperatives for building and maintaining a positive corporate image.
She stated that by defining clear strategies and implementing proactive and reactive approaches, organisations could safeguard their reputation, maintain stakeholder trust, and enhance long-term sustainability.
“The integration of these principles not only mitigates risks but also differentiates organisations as resilient, trustworthy and capable of overcoming challenges.
“It is essential to note that a positive corporate image is built on trust, credibility, and reliability. It is the culmination of consistent messaging, ethical practices, and effective communication both internally and externally.
“This image can be fragile, susceptible to damage from mishandled crises or unresolved conflicts which can quickly escalate and attract significant media and public attention.
“Stakeholders, including employees, customers, and investors, rely on the company’s ability to navigate through crises. Effective management ensures their interests are protected, fostering loyalty and confidence in the organisation.
“How a company responds can either mitigate or exacerbate negative publicity. By handling crises well, a company can minimise the damage to its reputation,” she said.
Olorundero also emphasised the need to conduct risk assessments to identify potential crises and their audiences and develop mitigation strategies to minimise the likelihood and impact of identified risks.
She added that organisations must provide regular training to employees on crisis response protocols and implement clear communication strategies to address stakeholders promptly and transparently during crises.
In his remarks, Director-General of MAN, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said conflicts and disagreements were inevitable, arising from diverse interests, resource constraints, power struggles, and socio-cultural and religious beliefs.
These conflicts, he noted, if not contained, could lead to tension, hindering progress in personal and professional spheres and potentially damaging an organisation’s reputation.
“This webinar has been carefully designed to address this critical issue, which threatens the sustainability of any organisation.
“It is critical to explore the vital importance of conflict management and crisis resolution in reputation management and branding for organisations in today’s landscape,” he said.
