Join BI PrimeA leaked memo sent to all staff at the headquarters of Weber Shandwick, one of the world's biggest PR firms, reveals its media relations strategy for clients and employees during the coronavirus outbreak.
The memo arrived as the virus touched Weber Shandwick directly. Two employees came into contact with someone who had been infected with COVID-19, and another New York staffer later tested positive.The global outbreak of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, has dominated news coverage over the past few weeks as people search for information and updates at record levels.
A Weber Shandwick spokesperson did not immediately provide comment for this story. Read the full memo below. Most significantly, the memo warned against sending "tone deaf" pitches for clients, which include Royal Caribbean Cruises, AB InBev, Chevrolet, IBM, and ExxonMobil. : Closely review all potential media pitches and social content for risk, backlash and insensitivity before sending.: Favor actions and stories that address public needs, not just short-term brand goals. Now is the time to be thoughtful, compassionate and patient. For the remainder of this week, we recommend holding non-essential pitching to general news, business, health, tech and some other verticals unless you have an unique expert or can authentically add value to the conversation.
5 ways to make money while in quarantine