2300 Blog 12

Jim Horton gave a shout out to GM on November 17 for what he called, “Smart PR.” Horton writes a blog called, “Online Public Relations Thought.” http://online-pr.blogspot.com/ General Motors announced that they were going to pay part of the Government loan they received back to the government. Horton says the announcement is, “…positive news for a company that hasn’t had any for a long time,” and, “The news offsets the company’s loss during the last quarter.” It is fantastic pr. More than that I think it is the right thing to do. If GM didn’t need all of the bailout money they should return it for better use instead of letting their CEOs pocket the money. Another possible move could be to give it to the workers. This is probably not as good of a move as giving it back but it would help the company and economy in many ways. The workers would have more money to spend and stimulate the local economy which is in such need especially around the great lakes. Also, employees would feel more appreciated and become better workers and spokespeople for the company.

Another important point Horton made was, “Paying back the government telegraphs that the company isn’t as badly off as people think.” That is an important message today. It is important for consumers, government, regulatory agencies and employees. It is also extremely valuable to the stock market. I agree with Horton in saying the GM’s move was smart pr but I also say it was the right thing to do.

-Melanie Fenn