What is your favourite reputation test?

Recently while listening to talk back radio in NZ, a commentator used the term ‘it would not pass the commonsense test’. This got us thinking at Daymark of the various tests that are around when it comes to assessing the veracity of a response to a potentially reputation damaging event. Here are some tests you may wish to use when assessing your next reputation challenge. Fail the test and it is likely your reputation could be at risk. The ‘pub’…

Federal budget 2024: industry reactions and strategic messaging

There is plenty of commentary and analysis of Dr Chalmers’ Third Budget in the newspapers and elsewhere in the media and I don’t intend to add to that. Instead, I thought I would look at the reaction to the budget from civil society and the industry groups that represent the multiple vested interests in our economy and the broader community. It is illuminating to see how they frame their responses, and it is worth thinking about what they were looking…

The benefits of data-driven storytelling

Amidst the clamour of the click, like, and share, where every message is competing for attention, I thought it may be worthwhile revisiting the benefits of data-driven storytelling. It’s a potent tool – one that can raise your narrative above the noise and resonate deeply with your target audience. Utilising data effectively however isn’t just about compiling numbers or accessing information; it’s about weaving them into a story that captivates, informs, and persuades. Indeed, it requires a blend of analytical…

In praise of the rubber chicken

One of the corporate rituals that fell away in recent times was the corporate eight-to-a-table lunch in a hotel ballroom. I am happy to say that the rubber chicken[1] circuit is back! I have noticed that many industry associations are filling their calendars with lunches, breakfasts, cocktail events and this is a good thing. As humans we crave connection and as those working for companies, institutions, universities, governments and consultancies, a corporate event meets that need. It has other benefits…

The importance of values – and the damage when they are not upheld

For the last month, I have been seconded into one of Daymark’s not-for-profit clients for two days a week. Working inside this leading social change organisation with its strong workplace culture has provided a salient reminder of the benefits not just of clear organisational values, but of living them out each day. Over the years, Daymark has helped many clients define their vision, mission and values. Often included in organisational profiles – both written and online – these statements send…

The crucial role of communication strategy in 2024

As we approach the year’s end and gear up for the planning season, it’s important to take stock and recognise the increasingly pivotal role communication strategy is playing in shaping an organisation’s future. Recent times, marked by critical infrastructure breakdowns, cyber-security vulnerabilities, and unforeseen challenges, emphasise the need for organisations, both large and small, to reassess their readiness to respond to issues that can quickly spiral into crises. In the spirit of proactive management, it’s timely to acknowledge the importance…

Year in review reveals additional priorities for Daymark clients

As reputation challenges continue to mount, nothing stands still with the issues and communications needs of our clients. Here we take a dive into the over 60 projects completed in the past year for clients to see what we can learn for you when it comes to building, managing, protecting or restoring reputation. The breadth of stakeholders is increasing We have engaged with hundreds of government and industry stakeholders on behalf of our clients in the past year. They have…

Robust CSR strategies more imperative than ever

Today the intersection between profit and purpose has well and truly taken centre stage, and the need for corporate sustainability and social responsibility strategies is an undeniable necessity. With the 2023 SDG Summit taking place in New York this week, marking the halfway point to the deadline set for achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is an opportune moment for businesses to reflect on their progress. The recent release of the federal government’s first national…

The Art of a Good Media Release

A good media release can make or break the coverage received, so it’s worth putting in the effort if you have positive news to share. At Daymark we often write media releases on behalf of clients, or review and edit first drafts. These are a few things we bear in mind to ensure media success: The Title and First Paragraph are Crucial News desks have always received more media alerts than they can cover, but with the ease of digital…

The power of tracking trends in an uncertain environment

In today’s rapidly changing business environment an organisation faces numerous challenges including an increasing lack of control over their operating environment. Whilst a degree of control once enabled stable forward planning, the goal posts now seem to be constantly shifting with the current state of uncertainty. Amidst this uncertainty however, there are opportunities. We have the choice to evaluate our environment and assess our capacity to influence it. Having confidence in understanding what can be influenced is a crucial step…