Bolstering

Definition

Bolstering refers to the strategic approach used in public relations to strengthen an organization's reputation and support its claims during a crisis. This tactic involves providing additional information or resources that highlight the positive aspects of an organization, thereby countering negative perceptions and reinforcing credibility. By emphasizing strengths and values, bolstering helps to create a buffer against potential damage from negative incidents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bolstering can include sharing testimonials, showcasing past achievements, or highlighting community involvement to reinforce a positive image.
2. This strategy is often used alongside other crisis response strategies, such as denial or apology, to create a comprehensive communication plan.
3. Effective bolstering requires a deep understanding of the organization's values and the specific concerns of its stakeholders.
4. In a time of crisis, bolstering can help restore trust by reminding stakeholders of the organization's commitment to quality and ethics.
5. The use of bolstering is not limited to crises; it can also be applied proactively to enhance brand reputation before any negative events occur.

Review Questions

• How does bolstering function as a strategy within the framework of crisis communication?
  • Bolstering functions as a proactive strategy within crisis communication by emphasizing an organization's strengths and positive contributions in response to a crisis. This approach helps to mitigate negative perceptions and provides stakeholders with reasons to continue their support. By reinforcing credibility and trust, bolstering acts as a buffer against the fallout from a negative incident, allowing organizations to navigate crises more effectively.
• Discuss how bolstering can be effectively combined with other crisis response strategies to enhance overall communication efforts.
  • Combining bolstering with other crisis response strategies, such as apologies or corrective actions, creates a more nuanced approach to communication during crises. For example, while an organization may issue an apology for a misstep, it can simultaneously bolster its reputation by highlighting past successes or community engagement initiatives. This combination not only addresses the immediate issue but also reassures stakeholders about the organization's overall integrity and commitment.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of using bolstering as a crisis response strategy on stakeholder relationships and organizational reputation.
  • Using bolstering as a crisis response strategy can have significant long-term impacts on stakeholder relationships and organizational reputation. When effectively executed, bolstering not only helps organizations recover from immediate crises but also strengthens their overall brand image over time. By consistently communicating their values and positive contributions, organizations can build lasting trust with stakeholders, which is crucial for maintaining loyalty and support in future endeavors. However, if overused or perceived as insincere, bolstering could backfire and lead to skepticism among stakeholders.

Related terms

Crisis Communication: The process of managing information and communication during a crisis to protect and enhance the reputation of an organization.

Image Repair Theory: A framework that outlines strategies for organizations to restore their reputation after a crisis or negative event.

Reputation Management: The practice of monitoring and influencing the public perception of an organization or individual, particularly during times of crisis.