Reference no: EM133673601
Identifying Unethical Strategic Communication
Purpose:
Strategic communication is powerful because the message is crafted in a way that evokes, informs, and encourages a specific outcome. The power of strategic communication is created through carefully identifying strategies and using tactics that resonate with an audience. There is an expectation that those who create and develop strategic communication will follow appropriate ethical guidelines. However, there is a fine line between ethical and unethical strategic communication.
Directions:
This assignment, we will learn how to identify ethical and unethical practices strategic communication.
You will read two scenarios: one being unethical and one being ethical. Once you have read the scenarios, identify the ethical and unethical aspects of each. Use the unit readings to further your responses.
Unethical Scenario:
In a desperate attempt to conceal an impending financial crisis, XYZ Corp's executive team launches "Operation Smokescreen." This unethical strategic communication plan involves manipulating financial reports by selectively highlighting profitable divisions and concealing losses, presenting a deceptive image of the company's financial health to shareholders and investors.
Internally, the executives implement a campaign to boost employee morale with false assurances about the company's stability, encouraging increased investment in company stocks. Simultaneously, they selectively disclose distorted information to financial analysts, influencing stock ratings and creating a misleading narrative in financial media outlets.
To control the narrative on social media, XYZ Corp employs a third-party agency to orchestrate astroturfing campaigns. Fake accounts flood platforms with positive discussions about the company, suppressing genuine concerns from stakeholders and artificially bolstering public support.
Influencing key journalists and industry influencers becomes a pivotal aspect of the strategy, with the executive team leveraging exclusive access and incentives to secure positive coverage while pressuring influential figures to downplay any negative stories.
As a final measure, the executives resort to legal threats and intimidation, utilizing the company's legal resources to harass potential whistleblowers and investigative journalists, discouraging any attempts to unveil the truth about the deceptive practices within the organization.
Ethical Scenario:
In response to a market downturn, XYZ Corp's leadership initiates "Project Transparency," a strategic communication plan focused on maintaining honesty and fostering trust among stakeholders. The executive team proactively establishes open communication channels with employees, shareholders, and customers. Regular town hall meetings, newsletters, and dedicated platforms are introduced to encourage a transparent flow of information.
XYZ Corp commits to providing accurate and comprehensive financial reports. Instead of hiding challenges, the executives acknowledge market uncertainties and share detailed insights into the company's financial performance. This transparent approach allows investors to make informed decisions based on genuine information. Recognizing the importance of employee morale, XYZ Corp invests in transparent communication about the company's challenges and its plans for recovery. The leadership emphasizes a shared responsibility in overcoming difficulties, fostering a sense of unity and dedication among the workforce.
The company actively collaborates with key stakeholders, seeking their input and feedback. This inclusive approach not only values the perspectives of shareholders, customers, and employees but also demonstrates a commitment to shared success and a willingness to learn and adapt.
XYZ Corp takes steps to enhance its corporate social responsibility initiatives. Transparent communication about the company's commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and community engagement fosters a positive image, aligning the organization with values important to stakeholders. In anticipation of potential challenges, XYZ Corp established a crisis communication plan. Transparent and timely communication during crises ensures that stakeholders are informed about the situation, the company's response, and the steps being taken to mitigate the impact.
For Scenario 1:
What makes this scenario unethical? Specifically, what ethical standards does this scenario not adhere to? Provide a minimum of three examples to back up your reasoning.
Does this situation have effective messaging? Why or why not?
What would you change to help make this scenario better follow ethical guidelines?
What ethical decision-making methods helped you determine the unethical practices in this scenario?
For Scenario 2:
What makes this scenario ethical? Specifically, what ethical standards does this scenario adhere to? Provide a minimum of three examples to back up your reasoning.
Does this situation have effective messaging? Why or why not?
What ethical decision-making methods helped you determine the ethical merits of this scenario?