How do you handle influencer relationships during a crisis or negative publicity?


 Theme: Crisis Management  Role: Influencer Marketing Specialist  Function: Marketing

  Interview Question for Influencer Marketing Specialist:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Influencer Marketing Specialist: Collaborates with influencers for brand promotion. This role falls within the Marketing function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Crisis Management with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Maintaining open communication: During a crisis or negative publicity, it is crucial to maintain open and transparent communication with influencers. This involves promptly addressing any concerns or issues they may have, providing them with accurate information, and keeping them updated on the situation
  •  Showing empathy & support: It is important to show empathy and support towards influencers during a crisis. This can be done by acknowledging their concerns, offering assistance or resources to help them navigate the situation, and expressing gratitude for their continued partnership
  •  Reassessing campaign strategies: During a crisis or negative publicity, it may be necessary to reassess campaign strategies involving influencers. This could involve temporarily pausing or modifying campaigns to ensure they align with the current situation and do not exacerbate any negative sentiment
  •  Monitoring & addressing negative sentiment: Keeping a close eye on social media and online platforms is essential to identify and address any negative sentiment towards influencers. This may involve monitoring comments, responding to concerns or criticisms, and taking appropriate actions to mitigate any damage to the influencer's reputation
  •  Providing additional support & resources: In times of crisis or negative publicity, offering additional support and resources to influencers can help strengthen the relationship. This could include providing them with crisis management guidance, offering media training, or collaborating on content that addresses the situation in a responsible and informative manner
  •  Learning from the experience: After the crisis or negative publicity has subsided, it is important to reflect on the experience and learn from it. This involves analyzing what went wrong, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing measures to prevent similar situations in the future. It may also involve seeking feedback from influencers to gain insights and perspectives on how to handle such situations better

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Crisis management skills: Ability to handle influencer relationships during challenging times
  •  Problem-solving abilities: Capability to navigate negative publicity and maintain positive influencer relationships
  •  Communication skills: Effectiveness in addressing concerns and maintaining open lines of communication with influencers
  •  Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust influencer strategies during crises or negative publicity

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of empathy: Not showing understanding or concern for the influencer's feelings during a crisis or negative publicity
  •  Blaming influencers: Shifting blame onto influencers instead of taking responsibility for managing the situation effectively
  •  Ignoring communication: Not addressing or responding to influencers' concerns or questions promptly and effectively
  •  Lack of transparency: Being evasive or withholding information from influencers during a crisis or negative publicity
  •  Inconsistent messaging: Providing conflicting or unclear messages to influencers, leading to confusion and mistrust