Doing business is about more than just advertising your product. For a company to be successful it has to have a positive image with the buying public. When something happens to damage a company's reputation steps must be taken to restore the company's good image. Several popular techniques are discussed in this article.
Instructions
1. Consider the nature of the scandal. Incidents that have caused lost of funds or hurt consumers should be addressed immediately. Smaller problems can take the "slow and steady" approach in order to alleviate any concerns.
2. Admit wrongdoing. To re-establish public trust confess to wrongdoing without being pressured too. By being the first to admit the mistake you prevent the problem from becoming scandalized and over exaggerated. Instead of defending the company's behavior accept blame and express regret about the incident.
3. Hold decision makers accountable. When the source of a company's bad reputation can be connected to one or several individuals letting them go can reduce the negative image and show the companies integrity. Explain that their actions were not endorsed by the company.
4. Use the media attention. The bad press can be used to your advantage. Use major media outlets and arrange press conferences. Reach out to the public, answer questions and donate to charitable organizations to replace negative images with more positive ones.
5. Put out your own press. Use press releases to show your company's stance and long term plans. Advertise through print, radio and TV. Showcase your brand in bright colors and make use of positive imagery and words to instill support.
6. Change the name. When major disaster has struck distance yourself from the company's past. Changing the name may provide you some level of anonymity and assist you in creating a new future for your company.
7. Learn from the examples of others. Other companies have had to repair negative company images. Read articles and books on the subject to understand why some survived the crisis and others failed to recover.
