JMPR Communication

Archive for December, 2009

I have blogged about celebs and their need to provide the public with REAL apologies a few times.  Look here and here.  This issue really upsets me.  Why do celebs think they can get away with lame apologies that are public-facing?

As I’ve said before, I understand the need to keep information private.  But how hard is it to say: I’m sorry?

Tiger Woods Issues a Real Apology: Image by Keith Allison

In steps the Tiger Woods incident:

For a few days there has been a lot of media speculation as to what happened the night Mr. Woods ran over a fire hydrant and hit a tree.  Did his wife hit him?  Did he cheat? Was he under the influence of a substance?

This morning, Tiger Woods issued a statement on his Website. In my opinion, Tiger shared enough for the public to know and did his part to squash rumors.  Even more shocking- he said he was sorry!

Tiger begins the open letter to the public by saying:

I have let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart. I have not been true to my values and the behavior my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behavior and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone.

And then, he actually goes on to apologize. (Applause)

I will strive to be a better person and the husband and father that my family deserves. For all of those who have supported me over the years, I offer my profound apology.

So wait:

• Accountability?  (check)
• Acknowledgement of how much this stinks for his family? (check)
• A polite request for privacy? (check)
• And an apology? (check)

Well done Tiger.  Very well done.