How would you feel if all eyes were suddenly on you?
You’re put on the spot, and millions of people are watching your company drown in disasters affecting its public image. All companies inevitably experience a potential crisis that can turn their lives upside down. Mismanaging bad publicity following any crisis can be disastrous (if not fatal) to a company’s public image. We love HBO’s series Succession, but living even a day of their battles is definitely not on our wish list! Before you panic, we’ll give you the battle kit that’ll make you win.
While there is no one-size-fits-all recipe for managing conflicts, there are a few tips we always give our clients:
Take a deep breath.
You’re not alone! Eventually, all companies will face an internal problem that seems like no approach has helped. The more complex a company structure, the more likely these issues will arise. Don’t be overwhelmed or beat yourself up about it. It’s time to do something.
Be strategic, not reactive.
Think back to the last big oopsy-daisy you made. Did you apologize sincerely afterward or allow denial to let the situation fester? Worse, did you have your defense mode activated and attack the other side instead of apologizing?
How did it turn out? Did it impact your business, family relations, or social circle? Often, it’ll hit all three.
Everything we do impacts our reputation, negatively or positively. We all make mistakes. It’s how we handle the situation that matters. You can’t turn back time – that’s why strategic thinking is your best option.
Watch for “red flags” — and preempt them.
Oh, we’re all guilty of this one. We love hoping something won’t happen, but some of us will straight deny how bloody red a flag is looking. Having an external expert guide your view of the matter can be eye-opening in managing all types of conflicts. Sometimes it’s looking at the data. Sometimes it’s a whole vibe.
Control the situation. Don’t let it control you.
When it’s time to divvy up an estate or business, disputes quickly turn into an episode of ‘Succession.’ Even close-knit families and business partners devolve into backstabbing with ulterior motives. (I mean, have you seen Season 3?!?!) Those involved are too emotional. They’re each carrying around baggage from their past, which clouds their judgment. When you want to take control of all the moving parts, you need to get outside help and actually listen to what counsel is telling you.
Be intentional when you put something in writing.
Often what you DON’T commit to writing is as important as what you do. On the flip side, you can use someone else’s intemperate or ill-thought-out writings to your advantage. (Or, in Roman Roy’s case, photos you send.)
Act like the hero you truly are.
If one person is bullying the others and you intercede, make it clear you’re protecting the group’s best interests. That makes the bully’s position untenable and makes you the hero. Just make sure you’re not doing this out for show because the truth will come out and bite you in the ass.
Focus your energy on the prize.
You have limited opportunities to impact any situation. Venting is usually a waste of time and emotion. Instead of getting pulled into other people’s drama, use your energy to achieve what you want.
Are you looking for fixers to help you thrive in times of crisis and protect your hard-built reputation so you don’t end up like a character on Succession? Click here for a free 15-minute consultation or call us at (310) 396-8696.
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Check out A Business Owner’s Guide to Crisis PR: Protecting You & Your Business’ Reputation for proven steps on how to protect your reputation and mitigate damage during a crisis.
Gillott Communications is a Los Angeles-based public relations firm that specializes in high-stakes Crisis & Reputation Management with more than 50 years of expertise in strategic communications, corporate public relations, and working with the media.
Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn where we share amazing tips on how to protect your reputation and mitigate damage during a crisis.