When building your brand, it’s crucial to maintain a positive public image, even in the face of hardship. With so many potential landmines out there that can damage your reputation, what positive moves can you take to bolster your status? Use a few of these tips below, and you’ll be taking a step in the right direction.

Hire PR Professionals

Just like you generally wouldn’t try to prepare your own complicated tax return or represent yourself in court during a legal matter, sometimes you need to bring in an expert to handle the image of your business. A public relations expert can help you navigate what to post on social media, how to spin a problem into a positive outcome, and even how to talk to the press. Even during tranquil times, a PR professional can help you shape your brand, crafting an image that will speak to your target demographic and gain you the followers you need to be successful.

Learn From Other’s Mistakes

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, issues happen that might cause the rumor mill to go into overdrive. Handling the situation the right way can be tricky, and now is not the time to make matters worse by bungling your response. Many high-profile organizations have made serious mistakes with how they handled scandals. Look back on others in similar situations to see what they should have done differently. Did they issue a half-hearted apology that came across as insincere? Did they pretend the problem didn’t exist at all, hoping it would just go away? Or, did they make poor excuses that landed them right back in hot water? Look for both good and bad examples of how to handle these situations should the need arise.

Give Back to the Community

One surefire way to improve your image in the public’s eye is by volunteering your time or money to an organization. This shouldn’t be done just to seem charitable, but should actually be something you’re passionate about. That passion will show through and seem genuine, which will naturally boost the goodwill of the public. Pick a charity that is close to your heart and devote your time during a few activities every year. Maybe you’d make a great MC for their annual fundraiser, or your company name would look terrific splashed across the T-shirts of a Little League team. Whatever it is, be sincere and consistent, and your generosity will be rewarded.

Maintaining a good image with the public can be difficult at times, but by keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be better protected if any issues arise.

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