More and more studies are being published on transgressive behavior at organizations such as the Van Rijn Committee, at broadcaster WNL and recently at TU Delft. Recent reactions, such as denying the allegations and criticizing the report, have not had the best effect. Ultimately, directors still have to resign or there is a lot of criticism of the response. But what is the best way to respond when you receive a critical report?

The FD asked Issuemakers for advice, in addition to Marjan Olfers who looks at it from a legal perspective and Naomi Ellemers from psychology.

Advisor Marit Holman gave her response in the article:

'Communicate with empathy'

Marit Holman from Issuemakers is a communications advisor during crisis moments. The agency works for many large companies. "It is very intense for an organization if it receives public criticism due to socially unsafe working conditions," she says. 'But it does not help from a crisis communication perspective to react defensively by attacking the messenger of that criticism.'

Rational arguments do not work well on a subject with a social-emotional character, she says. 'Step one is to show that you take complaints seriously. Even if there is only one: you are responsible. So show empathy and self-reflection. And take the time for a good response.'

A double message, such as 'we are going to take it seriously, but the research is flawed' creates noise. 'It may be true that an investigation is not good. Or that there should have been a response. But that does not take away the responsibility for worrying signals. It is therefore not wise to be indignant or even to play the role of victim.'

According to Holman, the second step should be: 'Indicate that you want to have a conversation, that you trust the reporters and want to understand them. That shows will to change. There must be a rapprochement between the parties.'

'And don't forget internal communication. It is important that these types of matters are discussed openly and honestly with all employees. Everyone within the organization is affected by such news.'

Read the full article here: https://fd.nl/samenleving/1509413/een-hard-rapport-over-sociale-veiligheid-defensief-reageren-helpt-niet