Crisis Coverage Overkill?
More Stories About Business Crises in 1997
In its annual survey of print stories covering business crises, the Institute of Crisis Management says that its business crisis news index is up 19 percent based on an analysis of stories it unearthed last year that delved into crises and related controversies.
While it's impossible to determine if more crises are actually happening, what is clear is that the media is certainly focusing on them.
The figures were culled from an ICM database of 60,000-plus articles downloaded from more than 1,500 publications worldwide. Labor disputes and white collar crime were the most prevalent business crises last year, receiving shares of 18 percent and 19 percent, respectively. Hostile takeovers were the fastest-growing category, increasing by about 101 percent, according to Bob Irvine of ICM. (ICM, 502/584-0402)
Working With the Media
Advertisers Want to be Warned About Controversial Content
In the era of integrated communications, professionals need to realize that ad execs still expect to wield some clout when it comes to editorial content despite the lines publishers have historically attempted to draw between ads and editorial features, news articles and visuals.
Ninety-four percent of national advertisers said they want to be notified in advance of "any potentially controversial editorial or program content."
That is based on a survey by the American Association of Advertising Agencies at the recent "1998 Media Conference and Trade Show" at the Disneyland Hotel. And of those, 36 percent feel they actually have some influence.
Sorry to say, but we hope PR pros aren't striving for the same sway. Stick to your ethics. (AAAA, 212/850-0722)