On the topic of media monitoring, yesterday I received a comment from a friend: “If someone wants to create a negative image of you, there’s nothing you can do about it”.
Being aware of any negative press is vital for any person or business.
Knowledge is power – and knowing who and what is said about your brand gives you the power to choose the correct counter-measures.
Counteract negative press to mitigate the impact and protect your reputation – but remember that sometimes the best response is no response (or rather a more long-term action plan).
Here are some key steps to consider:
1. Assess the Situation
– Evaluate the Source: Determine the credibility and reach of the source publishing the negative content.
– Understand the Claims: Identify the specific issues or allegations being raised.
– Make sure to separate opinion from facts.
2. Respond Professionally:
– Acknowledge the Issue: If the criticism is valid, acknowledge it and explain any corrective actions being taken.
– Correct Misinformation: If the negative press is based on false information, provide clear and factual corrections.
– Stay Calm: Keep your response measured and avoid emotional reactions.
– Decide whether to respond directly or keeping your cool.
3. Leverage Positive PR:
– Highlight Achievements: Emphasize your positive accomplishments, community involvement, and any recent successes.
– Share Positive Stories: Use press releases, social media, and your website to share positive news and stories about your organization.
4. Engage with Your Audience and Supporters:
– Open Communication: Engage with your audience on social media and other platforms to address concerns and answer questions.
– Transparency: Be open and transparent about your actions and responses to any negative issues.
5. Monitor Media Coverage:
– Media Monitoring: Use media monitoring tools to keep track of what is being said about your organization across various platforms.
– Analyze Trends: Identify any emerging patterns or recurring issues in the negative coverage.
6. Seek Legal Advice (if necessary):
– Defamation and Libel: If the negative press includes defamatory statements, consult with legal professionals to explore your options.
7. Build and Maintain Relationships:
– Media Relations: Maintain good relationships with journalists and media outlets to ensure balanced coverage.
– Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate with stakeholders, employees, and customers to keep them informed and reassured.
– Your actions can turn the source of negative information into a supporter.
8. Crisis Management Plan:
– Preparedness: Have a crisis management plan in place to quickly and effectively respond to any negative press situations.
– Training: Ensure that key personnel are trained in crisis communication and know how to handle media inquiries.
Don’t be an ostrich!
Negative press and media monitoring
