Layoffs and cyberattacks: Are you prepared?

1. CNN lays off over 200 staff after viewership decline
2. Rise in cyberattacks makes advanced crisis communication planning critical
3. 60-second close: Adaptation and forethought are PR priorities

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1. CNN lays off over 200 staff after viewership decline

• With viewership and ratings dropping since 2020, CNN is laying off 6% of its staff — over 200 employees.
• Armed with a $70 million investment from parent company Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN announced it’s focusing on transforming its digital strategy to adapt to the rise of streaming and evolving audience preferences
• As PR professionals, exercising thought leadership to stay relevant and visible to our audiences is pivotal.

2. Rise in cyberattacks requires advanced crisis communication planning

• From the Salt Typhoon attacks on Verizon and AT&T to the Change Healthcare ransomware attack, 2024 proved every industry can be vulnerable.
• Communications consultants must be at the top of their game during crises. A robust and proactive cybersecurity crisis communications strategy is essential, establishing procedures to communicate with internal and external audiences before, during, and after a cyberattack.
• Communication professionals should undergo and provide regular cybersecurity training and rehearse crisis communication strategies to prepare teams to handle crises confidently. 

3. 60-second close: Adaptation and forethought are PR priorities

• Adapting on a dime to an audience’s needs, like CNN's shift to a digital emphasis, is a core PR responsibility. Your creativity and approach must be adaptable as the PR landscape evolves.
• Cybersecurity attacks are inevitable. Proactive communications may minimize their negative impact.
• Axia’s experts can develop a strategic PR approach to prepare you for any pivot. Just ask me how we can help.

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