Post-Crisis Communication – Going Away Works
There is no way to “come back” if you don’t “go away.”
When a public figure emerges from a crisis or scandal, it is imperative to disappear from the public spotlight for a while.
For more proof, look no further than former President George W. Bush. In October 2008, within a month of the end of his Presidency, President Bush had an approval rating of 25% as reporter by Gallup. Twenty-five percent — “only three percentage points above the lowest presidential approval rating in Gallup Poll history.”
So what did President Bush do publicly since leaving office? Not much. Two semi-public speeches. That’s about it. He was the subject of an entire Presidential campaign, has been the subject of well over 10 books, and is still mentioned in the press fairly regularly (not in a positive light).
No public appearances or defenses, more negative publicity equals…
According to Gallup last week, it equals 44% of those polled would prefer to have ex-President Bush back in office. Why?
A number of reasons, including a number of opinions about the ex-President that have changed in the past year. Why?
He went away. As the proverb says “Time heals all wounds.” (maybe not all, but at least some)
3 Responses
to “Post-Crisis Communication – Going Away Works”
1 Trackback(s)
- Dec 23, 2009: Tweets that mention Post-Crisis Communication: Going Away Works | Matt Eventoff -- Topsy.com
i remember when i was still in high school, i always fear public speaking engagments.-:’
You have got some seriously useful information written here. Excellent job and keep posting good stuff.