Lessons from a tattered pink ribbon

A few months ago, the Susan G. Komen for the cure foundation created great controversy when it announced its decision to end funding for Planned Parenthood. The foundation reversed its decision quickly, however, it still was not enough to downplay the protest. Fundraising is now in a frenzy and highly ranked execs are resigning their positions. Events have even had to be postponed because the foundation is insure of fundraising.

It is crazy how one simple decision about a policy can make or break an entire foundation. In the article, it states some lessons that all organizations should learn from this crisis.

1. Never underestimate the power of social media. It was blogging that led this issue to mainstream news.

2. Always develop a crisis plan. No plan was developed prior so the organization was caught "flat-footed."

3. Maintain message consistency. Contradictory messages can damage credibility of not only an individual but an entire organization.

4. Prepare stakeholders in advance. You do not want your staff and its affiliates to be caught offguard of any changes in policy that are taking place within the company.

An organization so widely known as this one is going to be mending their image for a while. Now, they must spend the next months trying to regain loyalty which has been shaken up by this controversial issue.

http://www.prweekus.com/lessons-from-a-tattered-pink-ribbon/article/233957/