Corporate Brand and PR

GM has enough thoughts and connotations associated with it's brand that aren't very positive in my opinion. However, I think that GM's PR division is doing a good job at moving the new company full steam ahead with a new, more improved brand image.

GM just announced today that they have repaid their government load in full, with interest, fives years ahead of the scheduled date. They posted a new video announcing this news on their website. From my perspective, something like that and a video like that really instills a great deal of trust and sense of accomplishment for the company. Just from doing this blog, my own opinion of GM has changed, just from opening my eyes and seeing all of the new changes they were making to the company.

The PR campaigns that are in place to enhance GM's brand image would be their "reinvention" campaign that is helping to steer opinion and trust back into the hands of GM for Americans. They are doing a great job at restoring and reinventing the company into a publicly aware, open-minded, company. They no longer are trying to get every bang for their buck but rather trying to make fewer, environmentally friendly, well-made vehicles. The PR team has used almost every kind of initiative to elevate the company's status in the public's mind. They have created youtube videos, blogs, twitter accounts, Facebook pages, and have pounced on opportunities from other company's downfalls. GM is now offering special offers for Toyota and Lexus dealers, which is a great lesson in learning to pay attention and have media responses ready when any company in your line of business goes through a crisis.

I think GM has taken all the necessary steps to turn its image around. They are working very hard and have addressed every difficult issue head on. They have become a NEW company with a NEW mission and NEW ways of doing business. And in my mind, I think they are doing a great job so far.

Corporate Crisis

Gm has had it's fair share of crises over the years. The economy, bankruptcy, bailouts, the environment, gas guzzling SUV's, and recalls are all reasons for crises within the GM community.

Most recently, GM has been dealing with their bankruptcy and government bailouts last summer. After that, GM went through a large re-invention phase, working on gaining back the trust of the American people. I think the PR people behind GM did a really great job with re-inventing the company and re-establishing the company's mission and goals for the long run.

"This is not about going out of business. This is about getting into business." GM Reinvention Commercial

This commercial was very successful for GM. Although it was advertising, even just the name of the new campaign makes you feel better about the company. Reinvention covers everything that GM is working to do these days. They say in the commercial how they are downsizing, working with fewer, yet stronger manufacturers and car models. There is a feeling that the big heads at GM are getting down to business, getting their hands dirty, and doing everything in their power to stay above water.