Grapevine

Studies always show that the biggest source of information inside any company is the grapevine. The grapevine can be encouraged and used, if necessary, by putting out information about the company through a newspaper. Gossip is mischievous at best. It often happens because the managers of the company are gossips themselves or because they encourage it, listen to it, or not make a big deal about discouraging it.

I find that mentioning during the initial orientation that we don’t gossip about each other, or our clients, has a good effect. Usually companies do not talk about that sort of thing: it’s under the surface. But bringing it up on top, and then saying that it is bad for the company and that employees really can ask about anything and get an answer, will tend to cup it down. However, do not forget that gossiping is probably number-one interest of most human beings.

Media

This is a modern word, loosely defined as all the public information system, such as television, radio, newspapers, and magazines. The public, customers, and competitors all receive information about organizations from the media. By the same token, organizations are the ones that supply a great deal of the information to the media, either directly.

It is necessary to be very careful about what goes out and what is put out and also to be very practical about it. Organizations cannot hide from the media, and when they solicit the media, they get the opportunity to make big mistakes. Media people, for the most part, are very professional, are interested only in telling interesting stories, and are not out to «get anybody». However, organizations must deal with the media on a planned basis. Leave nothing to chance.

If a suitable consulting firm is not available or affordable, at least appoint a spokesperson. Think out what needs to be said on a subject and write it down. Then send that short comment to the media.

If a personal appearance is required, get a little coaching on how to do that sort of thing.

The images of companies, as well as those of individuals, are created in great part by what is written and said about them. We all know that, but we sometimes forget that poor information originates with ourselves.

Sum up information you’ve learned from the text.

Speak about the importance of different sources of information and your attitude to media.

Дата добавления: 2015-08-17