Your business or organization may encounter negative press from media outlets. With precise planning, you can effectively tell your story.
Rely on Facts
Reputations have been damaged by negative press based on falsehoods. With the 24/7 news cycle and social media, fake news can spread quickly and reach a wide audience.
Gather the facts about the situation and create a plan to relay those to the public. This can be done several ways – through your own social media accounts, and with traditional media efforts.
It’s worth gathering all articles and inaccurate information in them – this way you have a list of what you need to dispel with the truth. Although you present the truth, sections of the public may always choose to believe the falsehood simply to be in opposition – don’t fret.
Stick to your message and rest easy knowing the truth is out there.
Talk to the Media
Reach out to reporters and media outlets as early in the process as possible. You want to get ahead of bad press – or at least before it spirals – making the situation easier to manage.
Call or email reporters – particularly those who are already covering the issue – and offer your side of the story. Whether good or bad press, you want to be part of the story. Having your voice in the media allows the public to see both sides, and choose what they want to believe.
Developing a rapport with the media is vital to tell your story, whether you’re dealing with bad press or not. Particularly in high stakes situations, you want a handful of reporters you can reach out to who will be willing to listen.
The reporter ultimately writes the stories, but speaking to and working with them can ensure you get a fair shake.
Push Positive Messaging
Publicize positive information about your company or organization – whether it’s accolades or news such as a new product or hire.
This can be done through social media, press releases, and digital ads to targeted audiences. You want this information to reach a wide audience – spreading the word and staying in front of readers allows you to control the narrative.
Positive messaging is important all the time, not only when there’s negative press. This type of content can build your reputation, making crisis situations and negative media attention easier to mitigate.
Consistent messaging over time can build your brand image – the stronger your brand, the less likely you are to be harmed by negative press.
Research the Opposition
When facing organized opposition, take the time to research what you’re up against.
It’s not always ideal to fight fire with fire, but it’s important to have an accurate portrayal of both sides. If a story is gaining traction, you simply can’t let an attack go unanswered.
Your research could lead to the potential motive of the opposition – uncovering this information could help in fighting the negative press. Gather all the information you can that could sway opinion.
You don’t necessarily have to use this information, but it’s important to have if the situation intensifies.
More often than not, you’ll have to face negative press. Don’t face it alone. Sinclair has decades of experience in helping clients navigate the media and protecting their brand and reputation. Let us help tell your story.
