While there are no firm rules about what to say, and what not to say on Twitter, today’s comments by Kenneth Cole, was clearly a misstep.
In today’s podcast Allison and I talk about what the shoe manufacturer should have done, and what lessons small business owners can take away from their mistake.
And the story continues…. Kenneth Cole apologies http://on.fb.me/fK7l0V . Reaction has been mixed, with most people unwilling to forgive.. What do you think?
I think the apology is *almost* more pathetic than the original message. Let’s read that carefully:
>I apologize to everyone who was offended by my insensitive tweet about the situation in Egypt.
If you’re only apologizing to people who were offended, you’re not really sorry. If you characterize your message as “insensitive”, then you imply it was merely worded incorrectly and it was still reasonable for you to capitalize on tragic events.
>I’ve dedicated my life to raising awareness about serious social issues
This is painfully untrue. Cole has dedicated his life to fashion. He has supported many causes, but his life is clearly not “dedicated to raising awareness about serious social issues.”
>and in hindsight my attempt at humor regarding a nation liberating themselves against oppression was poorly timed and absolutely inappropriate.
I know Mel Brooks insists that “comedy = tragedy + time”, but I’d still rather not hear that his Tweet would have been well timed had it happened weeks or months in the future.
Furthermore, it’s worse than “inappropriate.” Wearing hats in church is inappropriate. This is cruel, opportunistic and self-serving. It trivializes the death of hundreds of people, the injuries of thousands and the oppression of millions.
It’s so easy to write these apologies, that I’ll write one here that can be used by all future executives, politicians and community leaders for forthcoming unconscionable misdeeds:
“I was wrong. I am sorry and I take full responsibility for my actions. I will volunteer my time, donate my wealth, and serve those who I have wronged for as long as I am able to do so.”
Feel free to save this for reference, should you be called in on a crisis PR opportunity in the future.
Robby,
Sometimes trying to take your foot out of your mouth simply leaves a hole so large the rest of you falls in. At this point, less words, and more action (translation: donations to relief efforts which are sure to be needed) would be the best next step.