There’s simply no way to be fully prepared for the emotional and psychological upheaval the first time you wind up being described in the headlines as someone you don’t even recognize. (2 reader comments)
The Human Side of Reputation Management
Mon., Apr. 10, 2017
By Cylvia Hayes
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Main Category: Reputation Mgmt.
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More Reputation Mgmt. posts from O'Dwyer's:
| • | Reputation as Geopolitical Currency: What PR Leaders Must Understand in 2026Mon., Mar. 23, 2026 |
| • | Why Reputation Is One of Your Most Valuable AssetsMon., Mar. 16, 2026 |
| • | It’s Personal: Strategic Communications Takeaways for White-Collar Criminal RepresentationsWed., Feb. 11, 2026 |
| • | When Lawyers 'Manage' ReputationMon., Sep. 22, 2025 |
| • | When Companies Take a StandThu., Jul. 17, 2025 |

For decades, public relations leaders framed reputation as a soft-power instrument - something to manage, protect, or repair. That framework now feels outdated.
White-collar criminal matters can quickly become all-encompassing personal crises, requiring close coordination between legal counsel and communications advisors to address both legal and reputational risks. These takeaways can guide strategic counsel when supporting individuals who are navigating these dynamics.
JPMorgan’s alleged relationship with Jeffrey Epstein illustrates why it’s a bad idea to hire lawyers to handle an organization’s reputation instead of public relations professionals.
How to navigate the risks and rewards of signing open letters.



