Sunday, July 15, 2012

The dangers of self-censorship

Just last week, I met my cousin who works at a private school in the greater D.C area. She described how her school has a policy of "no-media" exposure, following a controversy a few months ago. While in the short-run this seems like a good idea; in the long-run; media embargos are the death-knell of any organization.

Over the past several months that I have lived and worked in the area, I have come across several organizations which are indulging in this, not fully knowing how it can negatively impact their organizations. 

Why ? You may ask. Well, for one simple reason : If you are not defining the issues at stake and building your case and writing your narrative; someone else is - and it is possible that those who are doing it dont have your best interest while doing it. At worst, your opponents get a chance to frame it in anyway they want.

While the political environment in Washington D.C ( where I work) may necessitate a toning down of media exposure and an at times over-cautious approach to work; there is absolutely no need for being extra cautious about addressing issues that come up in one's field of work and organization.

Here are reasons why you should not self-censor, even at the worst of times in your organizational history :

1. Self-censoring is not helpful  - It creates a vacuum for rumours and gossipt to thrive
2. It actively promotes suspicion and also investigation, since people think you have something to hide if you dont speak, and clarify the issues at stake

3. It gives your opponents an edge - in terms of "framing" the issues at stake
4. It distorts perceptions and creates fear, where there can be clarity and open-dialogue
5. It festers an atmosphere of fear and anxiety - which can impact your own organization and employees.

None of these are healthy and normal. While a certain amount of caution and preparedness is required in dealing with crises and emergency situations, self-censoring and not talking to people or media is not the way forward.

A well thought out and articulated strategy is what is needed in most cases. If your organization does not have the time, resources or expertise; it makes sense to reach out to others who may be able to help.

Running away from problems, or keeping quiet about them does not solve them. At worst, it can exacerbate the problem, in the long-run.

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