Every year has an underlying theme. For 2017, it was a sharp divergence from the past. Expect more of the same in 2018.
Doesn’t matter whether you feel the changes are for good or ill. They happened. They were dramatic. Now we must deal with them accordingly.
It started on January 20th with a historic handover of the Oval Office.
It was more than a typical change in power between political parties. That usually happens every eight years as voters decide two consecutive terms are enough for one party.
But for nearly a century, with incremental shifts in emphasis, both parties trod a similar path of being measured (not bellicose) abroad and of embracing greater social and economic equality at home. 2017 represented a sea change in that trend, and the turmoil has been unabated.
Sexual-misbehavior scandals also dominated the news and the public’s consciousness.
Historically, accusers were treated as if it was their fault, their allegations weren’t given credence, and the accused got off lightly if they were punished at all. That seems like ages ago.
Beginning in mid-2017, the pendulum swung dramatically.
Accusers were now taken seriously, and many accused came tumbling down. Others will likely be close behind.
It’s most visible in entertainment and politics because of their prominence. But the ripples reach far and wide. Sexual misbehavior is no longer deemed acceptable in any setting.
Companies and non-profits sever relationships quickly. The taint of not doing so could damage their brand or reputation, and this could have a negative impact on customers and donors.
With all these changes occurring, it’s no surprise that after a flurry of attention these PR blunders receded more quickly from the public awareness.
How many of these do you remember vividly?
United’s ham-handed explanations for dragging a passenger from an overbooked flight.
The clumsiness of Equifax and Yahoo in belatedly admitting and seeking to make amends for computer hacks that exposed massive amounts of confidential consumer data.
The Academy Awards show gave its Best Motion Picture Oscar to the wrong film.
Kathy Griffin’s inartful attempt to explain away a questionable attempt at satire that went horribly wrong.
What’s the moral of it all? Honestly observe what’s happening around you. Don’t resist the inevitable or deny the obvious. Fix what you can. Then move forward.
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You can reach Roger Gillott and Eden Gillott directly at 310-396-8696.
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.
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