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Molly McPherson
PR Confidential: The Insider's Guide to PR + Crisis Communication

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A Realistic Picture of Disability Rights and Inclusion in Media and Marketing

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This week I am discussing an important - and timely - topic in today's media and marketing landscapes - Disability Inclusion.

In a time when many people are rightly demanding more equitable representation across all spectrums of life, it's important to address a fundamental area often overlooked: authentic content that embodies disability inclusion. In this video, I go into the nuances of this subject and describe ways to create content that prioritizes the three pillars of disability inclusion. I'm sharing how to adapt your media and marketing efforts to not only represent the disability community accurately and respectfully, but also foster a more inclusive environment where everyone's voices are heard, seen, and valued.

You can learn more from this week's podcast guest, Kelsey Lindell. A disability inclusion marketer and advocate. Kelsey does amazing work through her companny, Misfit Media (cool name). 

You can listen to this week's podcast epsiode, A Realistic Picture of Disability Rights and Inclusion in Media and Marketing with Kelsey Lindell, for more information on this topic. You can also watch the interview on YouTube. 

All Access and Premium members can download "A 10-Step Guide to Creating Inclusive and Empowering Content for the Disability Community" below. 

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Live Training: Crisis Averted: Your Quick Guide to Handling Social Media Backlash

Join me for a straightforward chat about managing social media backlash. I'll discuss basic strategies and share PR crisis insights about managing the trickier social media situations:

  • Going viral on TikTok because you said or posted something that ticked people off in a bad way
  • Someone dredged up texts from your past that are not good.
  • There’s negative Reddit chatter or an entire subreddit about your or your business.
  • A Facebook Group slamming your business feels like a punch in the face.
  • Ignore or face dead on? 
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Available for All Access Members. Register below.

Click here to register for the live chat.  

Hope to see you there! 

Molly

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Early Podcast Episode Release! Gaslighting in Media & Culture: From Jonah Hill to Pop Songs to the White House

Here's the early release of a timely podcast episode that delves into the maipulative world of gaslighting in media, pop culture, politics, and personal relationships. 

This episode explores the unsettling world of gaslighting in media, culture, politics, and personal relationships. We examine how manipulation and control shape narratives from White House briefings to Jonah Hill's leaked texts. Molly discusses the recent press briefing, addressing allegations and irresponsible reporting surrounding a controversial incident. She also addresses gaslighting within the political sphere and in popular songs that tackle gaslighting head-on. 

Learn how gaslighting is related to the entertainment industry, including the recent controversy involving Jonah Hill's leaked texts and viral revenge to expose allegations of his manipulative text messages to his ex-girlfriend. You will learn how to recognize and combat gaslighting in your own life. Whether in personal or professional relationships, learn how to quell the desire to put someone on social media blast. While cathartic, it can also be very damaging to your reputation.Mentioned in this episode: 

- Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 1.

- Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 2. 

- Gaslighting as a manipulation tactic

- Characteristics and motives of gaslighters

- Introduction to the concept of gaslighting and its impact on victims

- Addressing the controversy involving actor Jonah Hill's texts

- Connection between Olivia Rodrigo's song "Vampire" and gaslighting

- Messaging challenges related to cocaine in the White House

- Examples of gaslighting and manipulation in relationships

- Importance of not engaging in viral revenge

- Gaslighting in personal and professional relationships

- Social media discourse on the motives behind publicizing personal texts and warning others about abusive behavior.

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A Warm Welcome to PR Enthusiasts, Pros, and Newcomers.

The new community opens this week!
 I'm thrilled to have you join me and become a part of this new dynamic platform. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey in the world of public relations, crisis communication, leadership, communications, or PR careers, I'm here to support you and hope we can all learn from one another.

Let me walk back a sec - really, ANYONE can be in this community. You have a question? Let's hear it! 

This community thrives on the power of collective knowledge and diverse perspectives. That's why I encourage each and every one of you to ask questions and start discussions on the site. No matter the topic, whether it's about public relations strategies, crisis communication tactics, navigating PR careers, or even intriguing popular culture stories with a PR twist, we're all here to engage, share insights, and expand our understanding.

Don't hesitate to ask any question, share your experiences, or express your thoughts on the subjects that matter to you. This community is a safe space for learning, collaboration, and growth. Together, we can create a supportive environment where we can all benefit from each other's expertise and experiences.

I personally look forward to participating in your conversations, learning from your unique perspectives, and fostering an atmosphere of open dialogue and knowledge exchange. Let's make the most of this opportunity to connect, engage, and strengthen our professional journeys together.

Once again, welcome to the comm

unity, and thank you for being a part of this exciting venture!

What I am watching this week in the world of current events...

These are the topics on my mind for possible future podcasts and social media posts: 

  1. Bud Light (yes, I know) continues to flip flop.
  2. The art of giving in (Samantha Jones makes a return to SATC?) 
  3. This article from the Atlantic, The First Social Media Babies Are Growing Up - and They're Horrified. Are you concerned about sharing photos and stories of your kids online? 

I'm excited to get this conversation (party 🥳) started! 

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Navigating the Unexpected: 10 Steps to Take in a Crisis that Has an Element of Surprise

A crisis can strike unexpectedly, leaving individuals and organizations scrambling to respond. As a recent example, OceanGate Expedition experienced a crisis when they lost contact with their submersible Titan, resulting in the death of their CEO, Stockton Rush, and four passengers.

As I watched their response during the first hours of breaking news, I wondered - do they have a plan or are they winging it? 

When faced with such an unforeseen event, it is crucial to have a well-structured crisis response plan in place. A crisis requires 10 essential steps, including proactive communication, customer relations, and media engagement.

No plan in place? (Every company and organization should have one). But if something should happen before you get a plan in place, here are the nine steps to take to get you through immediate stages of a crisis. 

  1. Issue a Basic Statement: As soon as the crisis occurs, promptly release a concise and factual statement acknowledging the situation. This initial communication should express concern, outline the steps being taken, and convey a commitment to resolving the issue. Make sure you keep the 'Indestrctible PR' framework in mind: Own it, Explain it, Promise it. 

  2. Implement Countermeasures: Take immediate action to mitigate the crisis. Mobilize resources, deploy expert personnel, and initiate appropriate countermeasures to address the situation. Provide regular updates on progress and reassure stakeholders of your commitment to resolving the crisis.

  3. Prioritize Customer Relations: Communicate directly with affected customers and stakeholders to address their concerns. Be empathetic, understanding, and provide clear information on how their needs are being addressed. Swiftly respond to inquiries and offer solutions, if possible, to restore their trust and confidence in your organization. 

  4. Establish Media Contact Information: Prepare a comprehensive list of media contact information in advance. This ensures that when a crisis occurs, you can quickly disseminate accurate information to the press. Assign a designated spokesperson to handle media inquiries and maintain consistent messaging across all communications channels.

  5. Activate Website Alert Page: Make sure that your website is prepared to handle crisis communication effectively. Create a dedicated crisis page or section where news outlets and other stakeholders can find the latest updates, frequently asked questions, and any relevant instructions. Ensure the links are active and easily accessible. Update as necessary.

  6. Engage on Social Media: Utilize social media platforms as a crucial means of communication during a crisis. Pin a tweet or post that provides an overview of the situation, links to the crisis page on your website, and offers channels for direct communication. Regularly post updates, respond to queries, and share relevant information to maintain transparency.

  7. Assess Social Responsibility Requirements: Consider any social responsibility initiatives that could help alleviate the crisis's impact on affected individuals or communities. Identify ways to support those in need and communicate these efforts through various channels. Demonstrating social responsibility can foster goodwill and enhance your reputation, especially if you need it the boost. 
  8. Provide Background Information: Once the initial crisis response is underway, share the necessary background information to provide context to stakeholders. Briefly explain the incident, its causes (if known), and outline the steps being taken to prevent a similar event in the future. Transparently communicate the timeline and progress made in addressing the crisis.
  9. Highlight Mission and Purpose: Reiterate your company's mission and purpose in relation to the crisis. Emphasize your commitment to core values and how they guide your response efforts. This helps stakeholders understand the broader context in which the crisis is being managed and reinforces your dedication to your mission.
  10. Monitor News Reports and Social Media: Stay vigilant and closely monitor news reports and social media conversations surrounding the crisis. Respond promptly to any inaccuracies, rumors, or concerns that arise. Engage with stakeholders online, listen to their feedback, and adapt your crisis response strategy as necessary.

Facing a crisis with an element of surprise can be overwhelming, but by following these nine steps, you can navigate the challenges effectively. Remember, communication, transparency, and empathy are key to maintaining trust and mitigating the impact of the crisis on your organization and stakeholders. By proactively engaging in crisis management, you can emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of unexpected events.

Have any questions? Head over to the home page and ask me question. 

Molly

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