Skip to main content
Article
Being First Means Being Credible? Examining the Impact of Message Source on Organizational Reputation
Communication Research Reports (2014)
  • Patric R Spence, University of Kentucky
  • Kenneth Lachlan, University of Connecticut
  • Leah M. Omilion-Hodges, Western Michigan University
  • Amanda K. Goddard
Abstract
Research in organizational communication and public relations suggest that in times of crises, messages generated by the organization are most likely to positively influence stakeholder perceptions, whereas those generated by the press may have negative ramifications. Although this advice seems logical, to date there is little research that investigates this claim empirically and directly. Two experiments were conducted to explore the separate and combined impact of print and televised messages concerning an organization in the midst of a crisis. The findings offer empirical evidence that statements from organizations experiencing crises may offset negative stakeholder responses. Theoretical and pragmatic implications are discussed regarding these findings.
Disciplines
Publication Date
2014
Citation Information
Spence, P. R., Lachlan, K. A., Omilion-Hodges, L. M., & Goddard, A. K. (2014). Being first means being credible? Examining the impact of message source on organizational reputation. Communication Research Reports, 31, 124-130.