With the coronavirus outbreak branching further across the globe, and causing widespread anxiety and disruption, it’s also added a new complication to consider in brand communications and messaging. 

It goes without saying here that the human impact, the real-world, immediate health concerns of the outbreak, are the biggest concern, but for those businesses looking to maintain their activity, in alignment with this shifting focus, there are some key considerations that you need to keep in mind.

This week, Twitter has provided a list of key elements to factor into your messaging, in order to ensure that you’re providing helpful, beneficial information to your audience, while also working to navigate the rising disruption caused by the outbreak.

And they’re worth noting in our process – here are Twitter’s key tips:

• Know your brand – Twitter advises brands to consider how they can be useful within the crisis, and how they can lead by example, and do the right thing. 

• Keep up to date with what’s happening – Twitter advises brands to keep abreast of the latest changes, and to adjust their communications strategy accordingly. “What might have felt like a good message yesterday might not be the right thing today”, Twitter notes, and by staying on top of the latest info on the outbreak, brands can ensure their messaging aligns with important updates.
• Be thoughtful about tone of voice – Twitter also notes that consideration is important in your communications at this time. “Right now might not be the best time to be snarky or sarcastic, while empathy, understanding and even certain types of humor may go a long way.”
• Anticipate changes in your customer’s behavior – With more and more people shifting to working from home, among other behavioral shifts, elements of all businesses will be impacted. Twitter advises brands to be aware of these impacts, and to offer relevant policy changes and shifts in line with evolving needs, where possible.

Twitter also advises brands to ensure that they’re contributing accurate information in regards to the outbreak, while also looking to provide relevant customer support and assistance where possible.

But the biggest message here is about consideration, and keeping in mind the ways in which people are being impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. Everyone is affected by this, and there will be varying levels of anxiety and concern permeating through all communities.

Be considerate and understanding, and look to provide options to help those who may be in need.

You can read Twitter’s full list of brand communications tips here.