In public relations, timing is everything. In crisis communications, timing and control are everything.
When a brand’s reputation hangs in the balance — whether due to a product recall, data breach, executive scandal, or viral backlash — how you communicate can determine whether the company weathers the storm or sinks under scrutiny. PR and crisis firms are tasked with managing these high-pressure moments, often coordinating with clients, media, legal teams, and stakeholders on short notice. In these situations, operator-assisted conference calls are not just useful — they’re essential. Quicker and easier to set up than a webcast ensuring you can distribute dial-in details quickly in a crisis.
We specialize in delivering high-touch, high-security, operator-assisted calls that empower crisis and PR professionals to control the narrative, protect sensitive information, and communicate with authority when it matters most.
The Stakes in Crisis Communications
In a crisis, firms must move quickly, yet professionally:
- Media outlets are hungry for quotes and clarity.
- Internal stakeholders need reassurance and direction.
- Legal teams are watching every word.
- Social media may be spinning out of control.
A traditional conference call or DIY collaboration software link just won’t cut it. You need a service that ensures:
✅ Clear control of the message
✅ Seamless coordination of speakers
✅ Secure access for only the intended audience
✅ Accurate transcripts and recordings for documentation
We deliver all of this and more — with human support every step of the way.
What Is an Operator-Assisted Call?
Unlike automated conferencing platforms, operator-assisted calls are moderated by a live professional operator. These operators manage technical logistics, control access, introduce speakers, facilitate Q&A sessions, and provide post-call assets like transcripts and recordings — all so your team can focus entirely on message and delivery.
For PR firms managing a reputational crisis, this level of support creates the clarity and control you need under pressure.
Why Crisis & PR Firms Rely on Operator-Assisted Calls
- Media Briefings Under Pressure
When the press is demanding answers and your client needs to respond fast, operator-assisted calls give your team the structure to deliver a polished, confident message.
Example Use Case:
A consumer electronics company is facing backlash after a safety issue with a popular product. You’re coordinating a press briefing for 200+ journalists. We manage the call, verify participants, introduce spokespersons, and control the Q&A session.
- Client Stakeholder Updates
During a crisis, clients often need to brief shareholders, partners, or internal executives with the support of their PR agency. These updates must be organized, secure, and consistent with the public message.
We Deliver:
- Structured agenda management
- Speaker coordination (e.g., PR rep, legal counsel, CEO)
- Multilingual support for global stakeholders
- Full call documentation for follow-up communication
- Crisis Simulations & Media Training
Many firms conduct live training exercises to prepare clients for potential crises. We provide a realistic simulation environment with live operator control — helping your clients rehearse real-world scenarios.
Example Use Case:
A healthcare organization is training spokespeople for potential litigation-related press inquiries. Your firm simulates a media call with real-time Q&A moderated by our operators, giving your client practical experience under controlled conditions.
- Controlled Executive Announcements
From sudden leadership changes to company apologies, high-profile announcements need to be executed flawlessly. Operator-assisted calls ensure the right message reaches the right audience with no technical hiccups.
Critical Features That PR Firms Need — Built Into Every Call
✅ Live Moderators
From introductions to closing remarks, a dedicated operator manages flow and tone. You can rehearse with the operator team ahead of time to ensure smooth execution.
✅ Controlled Q&A Functionality
Operators can screen, prioritize, or mute questions. You decide who asks what and when — reducing the risk of unvetted or hostile interruptions.
✅ Secure Access Controls
Use pre-registration, one-time PINs, or operator screening to ensure only invited participants join the call — essential when dealing with confidential or volatile issues.
✅ On-Demand Transcripts and Recordings
Post-call assets are vital for media quotes, social response planning, and legal documentation. We provide high-quality, timestamped transcripts and recordings fast.
✅ Scalability
Whether it’s a 10-person briefing or a 1,000-participant global announcement, we scale seamlessly to match the urgency and size of the situation.
✅ Rapid Deployment
We’re built for speed. If your client needs a call scheduled within hours, our team can mobilize immediately — with full operator coverage and quality control.
Why PR Professionals Trust Us
👥 Human Support — Not Just Software
You’re not left clicking through an app when the pressure is on. Our experienced operators and support staff work closely with your team to plan, execute, and follow through.
🧠 We Understand Messaging
We’ve supported crisis events for corporations, government entities, and global brands. We know how to run a call that feels confident, calm, and under control — even when the situation is anything but.
🔐 Confidentiality is Our Priority
Crisis communications are often legally sensitive. We adhere to strict privacy protocols and offer encrypted conferencing options when needed.
🌍 24/7 Global Availability
Your client’s crisis doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Neither do we. Our team is on-call around the clock to help you launch calls fast, wherever your stakeholders are located.
Real-World Scenario: Managing a Crisis for a Public Brand
A national food company faces a product contamination issue that sparks widespread media coverage and a drop in consumer trust. Your PR firm is tasked with managing the narrative across multiple channels.
With Us:
- You host a live media call within 4 hours of the news break
- Our operators screen and manage journalist participation
- A real-time Q&A session is moderated for relevance and tone
- A post-call transcript is delivered to media partners and uploaded to the company’s crisis response page
- The client’s legal and communications teams review a secure call recording to align messaging for follow-up interviews
The result: A professional, proactive response that reassures stakeholders and helps limit reputational damage.
Final Thoughts: When It Matters Most, Trust the Experts
Crisis communication demands calm execution, clear messaging, and airtight logistics. Anything less risks making a bad situation worse.
Working with us, you gain a strategic partner who’s just as invested in your client’s reputation as you are. We provide more than just conferencing technology — we deliver confidence, structure, and reliability when every second counts.
Be Ready Before the Next Crisis Hits
Don’t wait for the storm. Prepare now. Contact Us or call (888) 618-9685 to speak with a solutions expert about integrating operator-assisted conferencing into your PR crisis response strategy.
Add Webcasting
Together, we’ll focus on these three essential elements for a successful event:
