In May 2019, two of Germany’s renowned online media platforms, Süddeutsche.de and Spiegel Online took the online media by storm after publishing video excerpts involving Austria’s far-right Freedom Party leader, Heinz-Christian Strache
…allegedly trading government contracts for political favors.
Once formidable figures, Strache and Gudenus, announced their resignations from all political offices and party functions the following day.
Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen on the other hand addressed the public in a televised speech, asking them not to turn away from politics “in disgust”.
Now, let’s look at this from crisis communication perspective.
Van der Bellen was rapid, succinct, and well calibrated. His timely distancing from Strache’s statements and subsequent actions demonstrated a masterclass in crisis communication. He’s certainly earned a score of 10 in our books.
Strache, however, charted a different course. He took to social media, alleging conspiracy and seeking vindication and labeled his own controversial comments as ‘mind games’, seeking to explain rather than apologize.
In my assessment…
Strache’s strategy was precarious. His emotional reactions, instead of expressing regret, came across as defensive. By deflecting blame and threatening legal action, he intensified public scrutiny rather than alleviating concerns.
Two leaders, two distinct responses.
Serves well as a compelling reminder that in times of scandal, transparency, humility, and swift action are often the most powerful antidotes.
Here are 6 Lessons from the Ibiza Affair and How to Navigate Political Scandals:
- Transparency: Any denial or attempt to cover up a situation often only exacerbate a crisis. In the case of the Ibiza affair, it was critical for Heinz-Christian Strache to acknowledge the video’s existence and its potential implications promptly.
- Own Up to Mistakes: When mistakes are made, admit them. Strache’s resignation from his position as vice-chancellor and leader of the Freedom Party was a recognition of wrongdoing, and this admission of mistakes can help rebuild trust and credibility.
- Act Quickly: Delays amplify scrutiny. Crisis situations demand swift action. Strache’s resignation came relatively quickly after the video’s release.
- Media Relations: Engage proactively with the media. Strache and his party should have engaged with the media in a controlled and well-prepared manner rather than leaving the narrative entirely to news outlets.
- Offer Genuine Apologies: Strache could have apologized to the Austrian public and his party’s supporters for the behavior seen in the video.
- Public Perception Matters: Understand that public perception can have a significant impact on the outcome of a crisis. Strache’s actions, statements, and the way he handled the situation contributed to public perception, which ultimately led to his resignation.
Takeaway:
Your relationship with the media can either be a lifeline or a lit fuse in times of scandal. The choice of response could redefine your political legacy.
Cheers!
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