Communicators and the companies they represent are wrestling with what to communicate, if anything, about diversity and inclusion. In the end, the best response seems to be the authentic one, interviews with PR pros indicate.
Crisis Management
CrossFit Responds to Gyms, Enthusiasts Following CEO Resignation
June 10th, 2020 by Nicole SchumanThe CrossFit debacle is not a crisis to be envied by communicators, however, the transparency it provided the public with its poor choices and timing prove that it is trying to regain the community’s trust and respect.
WHO Said What? Confusion Erupts Over Virus Transmission
June 9th, 2020 by Seth ArensteinWhile it didn’t make a splash, there was coronavirus news yesterday. In truth, WHO made a bit of a mess with its press briefing. Things got so bad, it had to clarify some of what it said Monday during a briefing Tuesday. In PR terms, it was a headache.
PRSA Chief: Always Communicate Compassion and Civility
June 9th, 2020 by Seth ArensteinIn a wide-ranging interview, PRSA chair T. Garland Stansell argues that diversity and inclusion should be year-round concerns for communicators. In addition, he believes PR pros have a vital role to play in combatting the scourge of misinformation about coronavirus treatments. “People are looking for direction and leadership, and it is our job to be truthful, transparent, and trustworthy,” he says.
Media Resignations Provide Opportunities for More Diverse Leadership
June 8th, 2020 by Nicole SchumanAs companies look at addressing their D&I issues, one place to start may be who should fill the shoes of those replaced. Particularly in media, no one can leave a prestigious editorial leadership position gaping for long, as news never stops. However, who and how you choose to replace can have a long-term impact on any organization.
In Buffalo, a Tale of Two Videos Exposes PR Truths and Questions
June 5th, 2020 by Seth ArensteinYet another example of police brutality was caught on video. This time it was against a white man, in Buffalo, NY. Complicating the issue is that police claim their response statement was crafted as they looked at a second video, as opposed to one that went viral and created a crisis. From a PR standpoint, the incident raises issues about honest communication and how long to wait before you respond to a crisis.
Drew Brees Fumbles Statement, Creates PR Nightmare for NFL
June 4th, 2020 by Nicole SchumanOccasionally a public figure or employee will take a stance that drifts from the overarching owner or employer. That’s when the brand goes into overtime assuring consumers and followers that the opposing message does not represent the entire organization. The NFL played it safe while Brees sat on the hot seat.
Edelman Follows Standard Practice on Coronavirus Layoffs
June 2nd, 2020 by Seth ArensteinShort of apologizing for promising no coronavirus-related layoffs in late March, Edelman chief Richard Edelman is conducting a picture-perfect layoff operation. The world’s largest PR firm announced layoffs of nearly 400 staffers today.
Why PR Needs to Avoid Convenient Diversity Now
June 2nd, 2020 by Neil FooteThe business case for diversity and inclusion is well known. Now, the pandemic and wrongful death of George Floyd in Minneapolis have teed up an opportunity for corporate communicators and PR agencies to re-shape their organizations’ values on diversity and inclusion. It’s a moment that PR should not miss.
Marilyn Laurie: How She Emerged from Humble Roots to a Woman in Charge
June 2nd, 2020 by Shelley SpectorMarilyn Laurie (1939-2013) worked her way up to become CCO of AT&T, the company’s first female in that position. She did so, in part, by holding un-traditional views, including seeing PR’s role as representing the consumer inside the board room. Our monthly history feature is a Q&A with Dick Martin, author of a forthcoming book about Marilyn. In addition, Martin succeeded Laurie at AT&T.