Two Tiers of Questions

Two days ago terrorists struck again. This time the site was Paris, France. And this time nearly 130 innocent people were murdered. It is fruitless to try and make sense of such a barbaric act. Whatever their beef, cause or vision, the people behind this and other similar acts of violence are nothing less than murderers. The fact they even exist is a blight on all of humanity. The challenge, of course, is to deal with them in a manner that is precise and definitive. My hope is enough nations will put aside their own differences, embrace the reality that terrorism is a problem they all share, and squash that kill just for its own sake.


The violence in Paris served as a blunt reminder of  how vital communication is during such times as this. When there is panic and uncertainty, the need for useable and understandable information is essential. This is what the communicator can provide. Specifically, there are two tiers of questions that they should strive to provide. The first tier is designed to help folks deal with what has just occurred. Addressing these questions represents an immediate response. The second tier speaks more to more providing a greater understanding of what happened. Addressing these questions takes place in the aftermath of the crisis.


First tier questions, all from the perspective of the individual, include: What is going on? How will this affect me? What should I do? How much danger is there? How much disruption is there?  Am I going to be all right? Second tier questions, from the point of view of both the individual and broader society, include: What happened? Who needs to know? What are the best ways to tell all elements of society? What are the best ways to help people contend with what has happened? None of the questions in either tier are simple. But if they are tackled in a timely and sensitive manner, answers to each will help give people the confidence and hope they need to move forward.