Reputation Recovery Is a 90-Day Strategy — Not a Press Release
Reputation recovery is a structured process, not merely a messaging issue. It involves three phases: containment focuses on stabilization; reframing shifts the narrative for stakeholders; and reinforcement ensures consistency to rebuild trust. Effective recovery requires patience, strategic audience segmentation, and a disciplined approach, rather than premature declarations of success.
When Not to Issue a Statement: The Strategic Power of Silence
During a public crisis, the urge to respond can be intense, but restraint often proves more strategic. Silence, when chosen deliberately, allows time for fact-gathering and internal alignment. Premature statements can lock organizations into unfavorable narratives. Understanding when to remain silent versus when to respond is crucial for effective crisis management.
The Biggest Mistakes Organizations Make During a Public Crisis
Effective crisis management hinges on organizational response rather than the initial event. Common mistakes include emotional responses, lack of clear communication, and inconsistent messaging. To maintain credibility, leaders should respond strategically, define relationships clearly, communicate promptly, and ensure coherence internally. Discipline in messaging builds long-term trust despite challenges.
What to Do in the First 24 Hours of a Public Relations Crisis
In a crisis, organizations must prioritize stabilization over swift responses. Key steps include slowing down to verify facts, establishing clarity in messaging, aligning internal communications, and avoiding defensiveness. Recognizing stakeholder needs and properly acknowledging serious allegations are vital. The aim is to prevent escalation, emphasizing clarity and structure.
Mike Phillips Media 