Trade Tips: Transparency Brings Trust
By Nicole Hayes
When will they learn? Hermain Cain’s presidential campaign is undergoing “damage control” and communications crisis as he issued statements this week to address allegations of sexual harassment toward two female employees when he headed the National Restaurant Association in the 1990s. The women referenced being subjected to “inappropriate behavior and inappropriate sexual conduct” from Cain and at least one woman received a monetary settlement. Over the past two days, Cain has given several varying statements to the public on whether the allegations were true, if there was a settlement or “agreement” made to satisfy the women’s complaints. Cain complained that he’s the subject of a “witch hunt” and a “bull’s-eye has been placed on his back.” But isn’t that kind of a given when you’re running for public office? Even the more reason for full transparency. Now, the trust he may have held with some public supporters is waning.
As witnessed in past examples of some public figures’ inability to be fully transparent, even a small drift from the truth can be sensed by people and the media. The media can be unforgiving and relentless when pursuing the truth…and they will surface the truth. With no escape in sight, some will choose that moment to give full disclosure of their transgression to seek our forgiveness and understanding.
We wrote on this topic in June with regard to Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY) and the public shunning he faced for his 10-days of deceiving the media and public. Like many other public relations counselors, we provided guidance how to best manage such situations. The golden rule: Tell the truth. Be as transparent as you can with the information you have that moment. Get ahead of your story and control it so no one else does. Transparency brings trust. Some may not like your honesty but most will respect you for it.
Note: We’ll keep these tips in our archives for repeat offenders.
Great job Nicole!!
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