public relations nightmares
TRANSCRIPT
PUBLIC RELATIONS NIGHTMARES
LEARNING FROM THE PENN STATE EXPERIENCE AND CRISIS MANAGEMENT LITERATURE
Matthew P. CiszekPenn State ShenangoOctober 15, 2012
How an organization responds…
in the face of scandal…
is the difference betweena public relations problem…
and a public relations nightmare.
1. Denial/Distance
2. Symbolic Change
3. Forced Compliance
Recommendations of the Freeh Report
• Change Penn State’s organizational culture
• Strive for openness and transparency
• Regular communication with stakeholders
• Background checks for all employees regularly
• Separate business and human resource functions
• Better communication between administration and board of trustees
• Establish independent internal audit office
• Changes to practices of athletics department
• Increase security & training for programs for/with children
4. Authentic Change
Crisis Management Literature
• Authentic change has greatest impact• Other responses can have negative effects on
the organization’s image• Proactive organizations generally maintain
image and reputation• Stakeholders want communication and honesty• Transparency and accountability also important
Library Case Studies
• Embezzlement of Funds by Director• Homicide on Library Property• Department Head with “Internet Issues”
Questions?
Thank you for attending!
Matthew P. CiszekAssistant Librarian
Penn State [email protected]
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