Any interaction with family and friends benefits from organization and scripting. It is hard to predict how a conversation will turn out and so turning up with what is essentially a written game plan will help to corral ideas, demonstrate competency and model open clear communication – the essential element in building a trusting relationship.

Silence was the only option before. Now there are countless distractions from confronting emotional challenge. As FLO you can model being focused in the moment and helping to define the atmosphere by your own calm undistracted energy.

When Accidents Happen: Managing Crisis Communication as a Family Liaison Officer

Recognizing that there are subtle ways to help put individuals in the place to hear and process challenging information will dramatically increase the effectiveness of the FLO.