Build reputation resilience with Armour

December 3, 2024

Navigating the modern reputation landscape can feel like sailing through stormy seas. Factors influencing your brand’s perception can erupt from anywhere, often beyond your control. One negative tweet can lead to a trending hashtag, and headlines can be reshaped in the blink of an eye due to global events or unforeseen crises. So, how do you stay ahead of the curve?

Before, product quality alone could carry a brand to greatness. Today, consumers are demanding a richer narrative from the brands they choose to support. They want to see ethical leadership in action, a genuine dedication to social responsibility, and a commitment to transparent communication. Your reputation is built by the story you tell, and it’s essential that every piece of content, every public statement, reflects a consistent, compelling narrative.

Engage with stakeholders

Let your audience be your allies. Open up channels for two-way conversations, encouraging dialogue that fosters trust and strengthens relationships. Use social media not just as a broadcasting tool but as a platform for genuine connection. Keeping an ear to the ground on public sentiment is crucial—are you listening to what your stakeholders are saying?

Armour: Six Shields for reputation resilience

When we work with clients, we focus on more than just avoiding crises. We aim to build strong reputations using our Six-Shield framework for managing issues and communicating during crises. A key responsibility for executives, this starts with spotting potential problems before they arise. It’s not just about having a good reputation, it’s about creating a brand that thrives, even in tough times.

We begin by assessing weaknesses and potential threats to your reputation, followed by a review of your current policies and protocols to ensure you’re prepared. Through our ARMOUR programme, we also provide master classes and training sessions to help leaders and teams gain the skills they need to manage crises effectively. We conduct stress tests and crisis simulations as part of our resilience training programme and of course we offer crisis support and advice when issues arise to help clients navigate crises and protect their reputations.

Get in touch with Esme Arendse on esme@aprio.co.za, and let’s collaborate to make sure your reputation not only shines but stands out in your industry. Your story matters—let’s tell it well.