Corporate lying has a disastrous effect on an organisation’s reputation. The communication management profession is under fire with recent worldwide corporate scandals. Prof Ronél Rensburg, Head of the Communication Division at the University of Pretoria has conducted research on this occupational hazard and will take conference attendees through the do’s and don’ts when dealing with media and how to protect and sustain the communication discipline.
“There are three universal rules when dealing with the media: do not lie; do not hide facts and; do not say “no comment”. It is communication management professionals’ responsibility to inform their organisations and CEO’s to avoid hiding, varnishing or embroidering facts, particularly where the media is concerned,” says Rensburg.
A recent article by PRWeek (August 2015) highlighted Rensburg’s findings and it is astounding how many PR professionals and CEO’s lie and hide facts to try and look better in stakeholders’ eyes.
Rensburg continues, “It all comes down to ethical communication – communication and PR professionals have the power to build or break down an organisation’s reputation. By being truthful and not hiding any facts, especially during a crisis, enterprises can build a solid reputation with all stakeholders.”
This fascinating and crucial topic is just one of many which attendees can look forward to.
Regine le Roux, Managing Director at Reputation Matters, says, “There will be a multitude of inspiring speakers – both local and international. We encourage all business owners and communication professionals to attend and start investing in a solid, ethical-driven reputation.”
The event is endorsed by the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa (PRISA), and members will receive CPD points for attending.
Other speakers for the day include: Andrew Boraine, CEO of the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP); Huma Gruaz, CEO of Alpaytac – USA; Mothobi Seseli, CEO of Argon Asset Management; Mzilikazi Wa Africa, Journalist at the Sunday Times; Nicole Webb, Founder and Director of Impact Communications in Australia; Norbert Ofmanski, MD of On Board – Poland and; Lutz Cleffmann from ECCO International Communication Network in Düsseldorf, Germany.
For more information on the conference, please email conference@reputationmatters.co.za. Alternatively visit www.reputationmatters.co.za or call 021 790 0208. Reputation Matters is also on Facebook www.facebook.com/yourreputationmatters and Twitter @ReputationIsKey.
