Jean Gonsoulin
Like many in the public relations profession who spend a lot of time managing client crises, I have watched with great interest the myriad of difficult situations that have played out in the media lately and wondered to myself, “how will their PR person counsel them on this?”
IKEA had to contend with the unfortunate death of two children when an IKEA dresser fell on and crushed them (there were four additional injuries in 14 reported incidents with the same brand of dresser). Malaysia Airlines continues to grapple with the disappearance of one of its planes more than 18 months ago as new developments drag the story back into the spotlight.
And then, of course, there are the individuals who draw media and public fire for things they say or do: presidential candidate Donald Trump scoffing at former POW John McCain’s war hero status, and Dr. Walter Palmer, DDS, the Minnesota dentist who finds himself hunted after killing the beloved African lion, Cecil.
While there is little hope of a PR lifeline for Dr. Palmer, and trying to rein in the bombastic, outspoken Mr. Trump may be impossible for his young PR counselor (she’s 26 years old), our profession remains critical to shaping, preserving and restoring reputations. And whether we prefer to specialize in crisis communications or simply bring in these experts when our client or employer is facing a tough situation, it’s incumbent on each of us to gain some level of expertise in how to advise on and manage these crises.
Our August professional development program is entitled “From the Frontlines: What You Need to Know Now for the Crisis Ahead” and features a blue-chip panel of experts including senior executives from Princess Cruise Lines, Toyota and Shell Oil Company. Moderating the panel is Mary Grady, who has weathered some of the most high profile crises ever as head of Media and Public Relations at one of the world’s busiest airports, LAX. More detail about the program is highlighted below — we encourage you to join us, and to bring a colleague.
Sincerely,
Jean Gonsoulin, PRSA-LA President
President, The Gonsoulin Group
jean@prsala.org
@JeanGonsoulin
