April 17, 2024
The New York Times and NBC News Face Internal Strife
Recent controversies at The New York Times and NBC News underscore the importance of good internal communications. Internal tensions at The New York Times have begun bubbling up after disputes between management and staff over union negotiations and sensitive topics like the Israeli-Gaza conflict. Adhering to understandable core values and maintaining transparent communications can help organizations avoid internal tensions and safeguard their reputation.
NBC News is under fire for mishandling the hire of former Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel. After employees expressed widespread disapproval, the news outlet reversed course and terminated McDaniel’s two-year $600,000 contract. The fallout is a reminder of the importance of proactive and well-coordinated internal communications in preventing leaks and maintaining employee morale in sensitive situations.
Latest Research Helps PR Pros Navigate Changing Landscape
Recent research suggests the fast growth of digital advertising is slowing. In 2023, U.S. digital ad revenue growth decelerated to 7.3% due to factors like inflation, rising interest rates, and layoffs in the advertising industry—down from double-digit growth in previous years, according to the IAB/PwC Internet Advertising Revenue Report. As paid promotions slow, earned media remains a powerful PR tool. Integrating AI in earned media measurement is helping PR pros communicate its lasting value.
The 2024 political season is impacting communications campaigns as brands try to expand their reach. The USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism released findings about how PR pros are navigating the challenges of purpose and polarization. The Institute of Public Relations recently highlighted research and strategies to enhance communication campaigns, manage public perception, and address contemporary issues like trust and narrative ownership in an election year.
Generational Shifts in Consumption and Values Shake Up Strategies
Generational shifts in content consumption and representation are requiring PR pros to revise tactics and strategies. To effectively engage Gen Z, brands and public figures are using direct, visual methods like short-form videos and collaborating with influencers across platforms. These tactics are increasingly important as traditional news consumption patterns shift among younger audiences.
A new study shows that 81% of Gen Zers’ brand preferences are shaped by multicultural and diverse communities, marking a critical shift in marketing strategies and influence. To better connect with younger users, LinkedIn is allowing advertisers to pay for amplification by influencers, a move aimed at boosting the platform’s single-digit revenue growth and capturing more of the influencer market dominated by TikTok and Instagram.
Sequence Summaries: Internal Instability, Recent Research, Shifting Strategies
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