Staring Down the Anti-Diversity Influencer

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the evolving landscape of corporate diversity initiatives, particularly in light of pressures from figures like Robert Starbuck Newsom, known online as Robby Starbuck. They analyze the contrasting responses of companies like Target and Costco to diversity challenges, the implications of capitulating to external pressures, and the importance of maintaining internal alignment and proactive communication strategies. The conversation emphasizes the need for companies to measure the outcomes of their diversity programs rather than just their intentions, advocating for a narrative that reflects their true values and commitments.WSJ Robby Starbuck Interview:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDB4s3LT-ygTakeawaysCorporate reputation is increasingly influenced by public perceptions of diversity initiatives.Target and Costco represent contrasting approaches to handling diversity pressures.Diversity should be viewed as a competitive advantage, not a PR strategy.Companies need to anticipate and prepare for ongoing scrutiny from activists.The focus should be on maintaining integrity and purpose in corporate practices.Topics Mentionedcorporate reputation, diversity initiatives, Robbie Starbuck, Target, Costco, corporate communication, DEI policies, public relations, corporate strategy, stakeholder engagementCompanies MentionedTarget, Costco, AT&T, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, Trevor Project, McDonald's, Deere and Company (John Deere), Chase.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Corporate Reputation and Diversity Challenges00:57 The Diverging Paths of Target and Costco02:22 Robbie Starbuck's Influence on Corporate Diversity Policies05:19 Scrutiny of Starbuck's Claims and Tactics11:01 Long-term Implications of Corporate Responses14:23 Tactical Approaches to Managing Starbuck's Pressure18:26 The Importance of Internal Alignment and Communication24:30 Proactive Storytelling and Narrative Control30:30 Measuring Outcomes Over Intentions in DEI Programs#corporatereputation #diversity #RobbieStarbuck #Target #Costco #corporatecommunication #DEI #publicrelations #corporatestrategy