Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

I agree in that direct talk with your customers should be your first step. If they've believed in you in the past and now, they will be the ones who will sing your praises as things get bad. They will be the ones who can say that the negative things being reported aren't true based on their business dealings with you.

As the others said, the truth will be all you need when it comes to facing media. Be as truthful with reporters as you are with your customers. The latter communication should come immediately.

I was oblivious when Harris took over Amcore. I went in and the VP from Harris explained the seamless nature of it and I was fine.

The question then is how much press is going on about it? Are your competitors talking to your clients about it?

Michael

Focus on your clients who don't have FDIC-insured accounts with you - they're the ones that'll take their money out fastest. But, what can you honestly tell them that will make them want to stay with you? If there's only hype, then don't bother. If you have a concrete plan, vouched by experts, share it.

Are there any big community events in your area that you could possibly sponsor? SHowing your support for local events will show that you are community centered.

Look at local fairs, farmers markets, fundraisers, things like that. Being a main sponsor ensures that your logo will be heavily displayed for community members to see.

I don't think joining with other banks is a good idea. Not only will many distance themselves as far as they can get from you, but they won't care if you go under. One less bank is one less competitor.

A bank that was losing customers left, right and centre installed a 14-point plan for their customers. They called it their Commitment to Customers.

Some points included:

All staff required to do community service (i.e a group of 5-6 tellers would go to the local old folk's home and do the gardening, or the local cat shelter and clean they trays etc) Giving Something Back!

All customers being seen within five minutes of being in the bank or a reward to the customer would be given (£5 was the target for the local bank. The staff found a lot of new customers arrived solely in the hopes of getting a free fiver!)

Giving help and advice to young people on how they can save money for the things they want. Would involve going to local schools and colleges.

If you can tell the community you care, then you'll find most will be sympathetic if/when the announcement should be made.

Most people will think the bank is getting its just desserts if it goes under. After all, the banks worldwide are partly responsible for the economic downturn. HOWEVER a bank that is committed to impeccable service in community relations and helping those that need help will stand out for the rest.