“Keeping Cool on The Hot Seat: Dealing Effectively With the Media in Times of Crisis is clearly authored by a seasoned professional who has much to offer to any student or practitioner of crisis communications. The “standard” chapters expected in any book on the subject are present, of course; it’s the content of each chapter, however, that makes the book a standout. Whether one is a beginner needing to understand exactly what constitutes an organizational crisis or someone “in the midst” needing a handbook for guidance as the crisis swirls, s/he will find detailed, concrete, examples that can be applied with confidence to present circumstances.

There is little of the “textbook” feel here, in spite Keeping Cool… being likely to serve well in that capacity. The prose is brisk, engaging in comes very close to the capturing the “I can’t put it down” appeal of a good novel. I’m convinced students would, yes, actually read it, understand it, and retain enough of its wisdom to inform their practice years later.

Among the features I particularly like are: the chapter on the importance and constitution of “sound bites”; that on the necessity of getting the body language that accompanies any verbal message right; and the “Lessons Learned” chapters, drawing from high-profile crises, recognizable by, and relevant to, anyone interested in effectively communicating under crisis conditions. Most especially, though, I know students and practitioners alike will appreciate the chapter on what was done right in the aftermath of 9/11 (I’ve often heard complaints about the lack of good examples!), and, to be sure, the one on the need to embrace social media will resonate.

I plan to introduce my colleagues who teach crisis communications to undergraduate P.R.- major and graduate-level students to Keeping Cool on The Hot Seat: Dealing Effectively With the Media in Times of Crisis, and, of course, it’s on the list for my next turn with a course!”

“(This book) is a must-have for today’s classrooms in higher education…It is filled with detailed scenarios and true best practices that make it a jewel for anyone studying crisis communications. A student in my class in Journalism and Mass Media said, ‘The material…has made understanding the crisis response procedures immensely easier to comprehend. Thank you for taking the time to translate the incredible real-life experiences you have had into this book.’ It is definitely a book you will want to read and keep close by to refer to – time and time again.”

“I used Keeping Cool on the Hot Seat in my Crisis Communication course for several semesters. My students found it to be both substantive and practical.”

“I continually use your book as a required text in my crisis communications course for senior undergraduates and graduate students, and with every client I work with. It is easy to read and right on point….I appreciate its practical, down-to-earth approach.”