If the media says it’s so, is it?
Many corporations rely upon their marketing departments to use creative image branding in the minds of their customers. To get their customers to think the way they’d like them to, or at least ideally, marketing departments will sometimes either slant news or possibly inflate news, just so things won’t sound quite as bad–or as good–as they would like it to. In theory, almost every company has at one time or another been “creative” in the media relations area and taken liberties to stretch realism. Even if it’s popular or second nature, companies must consider the ramifications of their “creative marketing” bubble stories being deflated and customers finding out the truth behind those marketing ploys. But even if all of the popular kids are doing it, does that make it right? Does that make it good to do, regardless of potential profit? Do companies suffer in the long run because of it?
For instance, politics has long been one of those instances where media relations plays a huge part in what and how people perceive candidates and issues. If a media outlet can cover or slant a story with just enough seed of doubt, they have the potential honor of single-handedly changing the minds of voters everywhere.
A corporation’s media relations efforts also have the potential power to change the thinking of its members as well. Just by employing strategic media elements and implementing a follow-through system, corporations have the potential to make a huge impact in the media relations world. One such example of this, and an example that I mention often on this blog, is the effects of social media through sites like Twitter. Corporations who take the time to develop their Twitter presence can make a difference to consumers. The American Corporation, Ford Motor Company, a part of The Big Three and in tough times right now, has developed a Twitter front that rivals any competitors and gives them an edge among consumers. Although financially they are in need of assistance, they also know that these tough times won’t last. They are turning to their customer base for answers, suggestions and discussions on giving the customer what they want.
Ford introduced multiple Twitter accounts based on what they talk about. You can follow @forddriveone, @fordtrucks, or @forddrivegreen depending on what you want. Link
They have also established a dedicated customer liaison department who listens to customer’s complaints and do their best to satisfy the customer and possibly keep their business. New idea? Not so much, but it’s the implementation of the way Ford has chosen to do it. So, if the news media says that Ford is expected to go under, file bankrupt or not make any new cars, should we simply believe them? Should Ford get another chance with consumers? Or, should we look at valiant efforts like Ford’s Twitter presence, dedication to quality and loyalty to consumers and deduce that they are trying and they are making an effort, therefore we should at least give them another chance?
Just because the media says it so, just does not make it so.
I am a freelance writer, blogger and professional motivational speaker. I primarily focus on business content, offering my clients strategic marketing strategies for their businesses. I have been an entrepreneur for over 13 years, after having worked extensively in corporate America.
