Public Relations

Sample Solution

   

Current College Athletic Program Experiencing Negative Publicity

The University of Southern California (USC) football program has been experiencing negative publicity in recent years due to a number of scandals, including allegations of sexual abuse, academic misconduct, and financial impropriety.

Media Coverage

The USC football program has been covered extensively by the media, and the coverage has been largely negative. The media has reported on the allegations of sexual abuse, academic misconduct, and financial impropriety in detail. The media has also been critical of the USC athletic department's handling of the scandals.

Full Answer Section

      Impact of Media Coverage The negative media coverage has had a significant impact on the USC football program. The program has lost fans and sponsors, and it has been difficult to recruit top players. The program has also been placed on probation by the NCAA. Suggestions for Addressing Negative Opinions and Building Positive Perceptions The USC athletic department needs to take a number of steps to address the negative opinions and build positive perceptions among consumers. First, the department needs to be transparent and accountable. The department needs to release information about the scandals and its investigations in a timely and accurate manner. The department also needs to hold itself accountable for any wrongdoing. Second, the department needs to take steps to prevent future scandals. The department needs to implement policies and procedures to protect student-athletes and to ensure that they are meeting academic standards. The department also needs to conduct thorough background checks on all employees and coaches. Third, the department needs to rebuild trust with its fans and sponsors. The department can do this by being more transparent and accountable, by taking steps to prevent future scandals, and by investing in the student-athlete experience. Public Relations Strategies to Improve Image The USC athletic department can employ a number of public relations strategies to potentially improve its image. First, the department can hold a press conference to apologize for the scandals and to outline the steps that it is taking to address the problems. Second, the department can release a white paper that details its investigation into the scandals and its recommendations for preventing future scandals. Third, the department can launch a public relations campaign to promote the positive aspects of the football program, such as its academic success and its commitment to community service. The USC athletic department can also use social media to communicate with its fans and sponsors. The department can use social media to apologize for the scandals, to provide updates on its investigations, and to promote the positive aspects of the football program. Finally, the USC athletic department can partner with local businesses and organizations to promote the football program. The department can co-sponsor events with these partners and can offer discounts to students and fans. By taking these steps, the USC athletic department can begin to repair its damaged image and rebuild trust with its fans and sponsors.