Ask Doug & Polly: Public relations crisis [Video]

QUESTION: My small business is facing what could be a PR crisis. One of our local television stations may be planning to run an unflattering piece about my business. Do you have any advice for how to handle this effectively and minimize the damage?

ANSWER: First, if 60 Minutes calls, don’t answer! Seriously, the five tips below will be helpful when you are facing a PR crisis.

Have a plan for dealing with the media: Your first decision is whether you will accept an interview to comment on the story. If you choose not to comment, it won’t stop the media outlet from running your story. They will probably say something that indicates you declined to comment. However, you will avoid being put on the hot seat and potentially being made to look bad on camera. This may also allow you to avoid having your face on the local news. Although, they may well show a picture of you.

If …