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First Club CC Event in the Books...

Posted by Matt Sullivan on February 22, 2013 at February 22, 2013 9:28 AM

Padilla kicked off its inaugural Communications Cocktale Club last night. Better known as "Club CC" and promising "just enough education and plenty of libation", the event featured former KSTP-TV reporter, Bob McNaney--and yes, ample food and beverages. Bob, now the VP of crisis and critical issues at Padilla, talked about: how investigative journalists think and operate, hard-hitting stories from his past and critical take-aways from these situations.

More important, he shared what to do if your company finds itself in the crosshairs of an investigative journalist/story. Here's what Bob had to say:

• Understanding how investigative journalists work is key. Traditional reporters build their stories by talking to the company first. On the flip side, an investigative journalist builds the case/story--leveraging multiple sources--and approaches the company last for comment/perspective.

• This "I got you" mentality and modus operandi means that it's imperative companies have protocols in place to immediately respond to tight deadlines. Chances are if you're just hearing about the story, it's ready to air/print pending your company's comment.

• People often wonder where investigative journalists get their story ideas/fodder. Nine times out of 10, Bob said, it's from employees within a company or organization leaking information. Know with as much certainty as possible, what's going on inside your walls.

• Adhere to crisis communication 101. Face your issues head on, with honesty and without blame. If you're wrong, say that you're wrong and mean it.

Matt

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