" It can take 20 years to build a reputation … and five minutes to burn it up in flames." - Warren Buffett.
In recent times, countless celebrities, business leaders and public figures have lost their jobs and careers overnight because they had a #reputationfail.
Many have been forced to step down from dream roles and social standing when either bad behaviour, social media naiveté and (let's say it as it is!) arrogance has led to their reputations taking a big hit despite their talent and fame.
They wake up to the rude and harsh truth that their accolades, awards and past achievements mean nothing in the face of sudden crisis.
Reputation far outlives fame. Fame is fleeting, but a good or bad reputation follows you for life – because we live in a world, especially a digital one, where old mistakes can be unearthed and regurgitated to your horror – especially when they reflect the person you used to be, and not who you are today.
So whatever you do, even if you’re courting fame, make sure you understand that the total sum of all your choices, words and actions could impact your reputation - if not now, they might so in the future.
Mistakes that sway your reputation can also impact your career and revenue when contracts and sponsorships are dropped, and your brand equity and value takes a major slide in the wrong direction.
Your family too can be hit badly by a crisis, causing emotional stress and strain from the unwanted media and public attention.
So what can you do to future proof your brand and reputation?
1. By first ensuring your heart and hands are spotless.
Whatever you do, whatever choices you make and especially whatever you say, write, post or share in this age of omniscient social media - comes from a place of wisdom, virtue, humility, contentment, deep insight and introspection. Being sober too is great!
2. Then, by thinking strategically.
Undertaking media and crisis training, assessing your vulnerabilities, and drafting and testing a response plan.
Of course, the best way to manage a reputational crisis is to avoid one in the first place. Caution rules here people! However, mistakes and inescapable calamities happen.
Therefore, it’s important to anticipate a crisis and take precautionary measures.
And when a crisis does happen, to be kind to yourself. Have a look at our brand mapping strategies and reputation triage advice on the app to find out how you can proof yourself from and manage your brand through a crisis.
Insight Inspiration:
If your reputation has taken a recent hit, take a deep breath and be kind to yourself.
Sounds simple, but it isn’t for many especially when they’re naturally tough on themselves or have made a major mistake that’s impacting their business and future.
Whatever you do, don’t be hard on yourself. We all make mistakes.
Mistakes that can be costly but ***t happens.
Like Simone Elkeles says “Makin' mistakes ain't a crime, you know. What's the use of having a reputation if you can't ruin it every now and then?”
So build that brand and reputation my friend, but when you fall, be kind to yourself. You can always pick yourself up, dust it off, and try again.
Life is all about transformation, reinvention and evolution. Into a better, stronger, wiser human being, brand and business.
Let that sink in!
