Question

To prevent a public relations problem, which of the following might be the best way to respond to a critic who posts negative information about the company?

A. Ignore the writer and the post.
B. Contact the writer privately to attempt to resolve the situation.
C. Monitor feedback about the complaint before making a decision.
D. Threaten legal action unless the post is removed.
E. Assess the message for flaws.

Answer 1

The best course of action to prevent a public relations issue is to contact the critic privately for a resolution and to assess the message for any legitimate concerns, leading to constructive resolution and positive engagement.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent a public relations problem, the best way to respond to a critic who posts negative information about the company might be to contact the writer privately to attempt to resolve the situation. This approach is proactive and offers a chance for a constructive dialogue between the company and the critic. It also keeps the conversation out of the public eye, which could help deescalate any potential negative attention.

An effective response strategy includes assessing the message for flaws and seeking to understand the critic’s perspective. If the complaint is legitimate, the company should acknowledge the issue and take steps to address it. This tactic not only demonstrates responsiveness but can also turn a critic into an advocate if handled correctly. Ignoring the post, threatening legal action, or reacting defensively may lead to further public relations damage and do not facilitate impactful engagement or a solution-oriented approach.