SME Magazine SPRING 2017 | Page 35

REPUTATIONS S • HONESTY • OPENNESS CT FA • ITY GR TE IN NT ME IS GE REPUTATION MANA REPUTATION MANAGEMENT IS NOT SPIN • LIES • DISHONESTY • COVERING UP public relations, more nuanced and targeted. We help organisations and individuals understand perceptions and expectations of others around them, and we can identify, inform and build reputations. We can also manage emerging issues and crises. A proven provider will have the experience, ability and networks to advise on profile-building and deal with a crisis when it occurs with proactive strategies to keep you communicating – remember, if you’re not talking about the crisis, someone else is. If you leave a communications vacuum others will fill it. The best way to cope with reputational damage is to have a great reputation in the first place. At Acuity Reputation, we have worked with a huge variety of clients over the years including governments, government agencies, multi-national companies, financial institutions, legal firms, academic bodies and private individuals. We work by establishing a client’s communications objectives. Where do they want to get to? Do they want more customers? A higher profile? To be viewed in a different way? This calibration of aims is key to what follows. After the initial discovery session we put together a detailed document showing what we will do to achieve the objectives. This strategic communications plan drives the project(s) and is constantly refined in response to changing circumstances. If you know where you’re going it’s a lot easier to reach your destination. We prefer to operate before a crisis occurs but sometimes we get called in when a problem has arisen. A crisis, when it happens, does not have to damage your reputation. When properly managed, it can provide an effective opportunity for communicating and demonstrating your values and integrity on a very public stage. But in order to properly manage a crisis situation you should plan and prepare for it long in advance. Looking after your reputation and investing in professional reputation management now will pay dividends during any crisis. For us it’s hugely satisfying to see a business thrive as a direct result of our work. We’ve worked with many high- calibre individuals over the years and that helps to drive our reputation too. It’s not rocket science but it can send some into orbit and leave others burnt and bloodied. THE PR BRIEF: HOW WE WORK THROUGH A PROBLEM Communication channels Target audiences Objectives Background www.smeweb.com Messages Potential challenges Timescale Budget SME 35