When I'm asked by young students how to get started in a career in public relations, the person asking is almost always thinking of the glitz and glamour side of PR. Many think PR is just covering events, parties and getting to play the role of socialite.
I think often it's forgotten the work that many public relations professionals encounter, when there is a national tragedy, a rumor or a lie regarding a company, or just an attack that they must face head-on in order to avoid the damage that negative press can cause. We often refer to this as crisis communication.
A week ago the Arizona shootings shocked and frightened our country. Once again, we all felt vulnerable because of a terrorist attack - a feeling that is becoming all too familiar. Political figures took to the airwaves, including President Obama and Sarah Palin. Contributing Writer Guy Bergstrom takes you on a journey through the speeches that were delivered and explains who handled the tragedy right and who for lack of better word - bombed!
The information he provides is valuable to all of us. He explains how public figures should respond when they are faced with the worst. A great piece in my opinion that any public relations professional should bookmark, you just never know when this information might come in handy.
Related: How to Fight Rumors, Lies and Propaganda | Develop Your Crisis Communication Plan | Public Relations Crisis Communication and Mistakes
“Contributing Writer Guy Bergstrom takes you on a journey through the speeches that were delivered and explains who handled the tragedy right and who for lack of better word – bombed!”
Where do I read this? I don’t see a link to Mr. Bergstrom’s story.
Hi Lynn, it’s linked in the title, but just in case you have problems getting to it – this is the direct link:
How Public Figures Should React to a National Tragedy