Bad publicity is bad for business – there is no doubt about that, but if you’ve had a PR nightmare, it does not have to spell the end for your company and your reputation. It’s totally possible to bounce back from the vast majority of PR slips, and below you will find some key strategies to help you do just that.
- Own It Like You Bought It
You might be tempted to hide it under the carpet and spiral into denial, but the first step to overcoming a PR disaster really is to own up to it. And I mean really own it, not just with a half-hearted “we regret any offence caused” kind of way. Be specific about what went wrong and why it won’t happen again. It might hurt in the moment but it will be better in the long run.
- Give your Company a Makeover
Once you have worked out what went wrong and owned up to it, then you are going to want to make some changes to your business so that it does not happen again. This could mean anything from a revamp of your social media policy, a new customer service protocol, hiring a good cyber security company, or even some fresh faces on the team. Once the changes have been made, it’s time to market and publicise them so everyone knows you have changes. Otherwise, what’s the point?
- The Humble Brag
Of course, it’s not enough to just make improvements; you’ve got to tell people about them in a way that doesn’t sound like you’re tooting your own horn too loudly because, let’s face it, most people don’t like that! Use your platforms to showcase the steps you’ve taken without coming across as boastful if you possibly can, and it will do wonders for your rep.
- Engage in a Bit of Do-Goodery
Nothing says “we’re not all bad” like a bit of philanthropy. It’s always good to engage in some community projects or support a charity that aligns with your company values. It’s a way to show you’re committed to positive action, not just damage control. Plus, it’s good karma, and who couldn’t use a bit of that?
- The Art of Distraction
While you’re fixing things behind the scenes, why not distract the public with something new and exciting? Launch a new product, announce a major collaboration, or host an event. It’s the classic magician’s trick: while everyone’s looking at your right hand, they won’t see what your left hand is doing. Just make sure your new venture is foolproof, or you might end up back at square one.
- Get a Little Help from Your Friends
Sometimes, a little endorsement goes a long way. Get testimonials from happy customers or partners who can vouch for your company’s credibility and the quality of your products or services. It’s like when you’re at a party and a mate tells you the dodgy-looking punch is actually alright; sometimes, you just need a nudge from a trusted source.
- Laugh at Yourself (Before Anyone Else Does)
Last but not least, if the situation allows for it, a little self-deprecating humour can work wonders. It shows you don’t take yourself too seriously and can lighten the mood. Just tread carefully; there’s a fine line between a chuckle and a cringe.
PR disasters, as you can see, really don’t have to be disastrous forever!