How would you have handled a similar situation, in which a ...

[theo]

How would you have handled a similar situation, in which a television reporter used a hidden camera to present an unflattering -- and possibly inaccurate -- picture of your company?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Suppose you work for a company and discover that a hidden television camera has caught your employees doing something illegal. The program is scheduled to air in a few days. How would you handle this situation?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[rnehls]

Answer to Question 1

The first thing you should do is research. Find out what the media are alleging
and whether there is any basis in fact. Then try to negotiate the best deal with the
media you can while preparing for the worst. If the company has made errors, it
is best to acknowledge them and be seen taking steps to improve them. If you do
that, then the best you can hope for is balanced reporting. However, you will also
need to be prepared to respond to the report with facts that support your point of
view. If it comes down to a legal strategy, everyone, including the lawyers,
should be made to understand the inherent risks in any direction the company chooses.

Answer to Question 2

Before you do anything else, research the facts and fix the problem. If it involves
illegal activity, inform and cooperate with the proper authorities. If appropriate,
announce any steps you have made to correct the problem. Be as candid with the
media as possible -- do not hide behind no comment.