Corporate Social Responsibility

Despite the overwhelming demand on certain industries, customer service remains a reputation maker, good or bad. Fortunately, we found the basics of good customer service communications prior to the pandemic remain constant. Add to them even more than normal emotion and understanding.

Since brands are trusted more than politicians, this dark moment is an opportunity for them to shine, argues creative director Mark Sorensen. He offers several ways brands and their leaders can help direct the public to do the right thing, proving that capitalism cares about more than profits.

As PRNEWS catalogs the good works and clever messaging out there, we wanted to highlight some of the groups that have a track record of giving back.

[Editor’s note: In addition to some brands, organizations and individuals doling out acts of kindness (check here for that particular dose of positivity), several are changing their messaging to reflect the new reality. Below is… Continued

We don’t emotionally trust facts; we trust people – or we don’t.  As we process facts emotionally, we trust leaders who move beyond facts to speak in a voice that echoes how we feel, right now. At a time when the public is worried, communicating with the heart can help. Facts alone will not drive people to action, writes Gil Bashe, managing partner, global health, Finn Partners.

As many others are doing, members of the book industry have stepped up during the coronavirus crisis. Here are examples of how authors are working with PR pros to offer solace to a variety of groups during these difficult times.

One silver lining during the COVID-19 period is that some brands, organizations and individuals are attempting to offset the difficulties with acts of kindness. In an article published March 13, 2020, PRNEWS editor Seth Arenstein described and listed early examples of this. Since that time, PRNEWS decided to extend the list periodically with additional examples of noteworthy activities.

The day-to-day of communications work can wear on a practitioner. Pro bono work can be a nice distraction. In addition it can help build morale, community spirit and assist with recruitment. More important, of course, is the satisfaction and joy that giving back can bring.

Brands must be held responsible for the work they distribute, particularly when it revolves around an international cause or recognition day. National pizza day is one thing, but when the messaging revolves around something meaningful that can make a global impact, like International Women’s Day on March 8, a serious pause for thought and results needs to be considered.

Here’s a brief guide to what communicators should be doing and thinking about as the virus begins to make its way across the country.