Posted March 11, 2021
Leaders and communication professionals can learn a great deal from the Queen's media statement in response to the Meghan and Harry Interview. Here is the statement below, followed by my comments.
“The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.
The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.
“Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much-loved family members.”
Why is it so good?
1) The more you say, the more choice you are giving the media about what parts to select for their news stories. If you keep it brief, they'll probably use it all verbatim (as most have here).
2) This means you have to think carefully about what the main points are that you want to get across. Any of you who have done my media training will know the system I recommend when there is a victim or perceived victim involved.
This is the 3 Rs. The first point is Regret: The Queen's statement opened with this by recognising the challenges faced by
Meghan and Harry. The second point is Response: The Queen's statement covered that by saying the issue would be taken seriously and addressed privately. The third R is Reassurance: This was used by saying that Meghan and family would be much loved regardless of this.
You can use this same system when dealing with negative issues. Keep it brief and use the three Rs.
Sometimes more than a statement is needed in responding to negative issues and the key is being prepared. If you'd like to know more about this and how to protect your reputation, email [email protected]