Real-Life Decision Making -- Solution
You say nothing to the doctor about his appearance.
You decide that it's not your job to tell the doctor to change his appearance.
That is a personal issue, not a media issue.
The clients are unhappy that you won't comply with their wishes. But on
the other hand, they still won't approach Dr. Leaman themselves to ask him
to change.
The awareness campaign approaches, and Dr. Leaman gives his first high-profile
TV interview. He holds up very well, and gives a very interesting and cohesive
interview. He has got the message out.
But in the newspaper editorial cartoon the next day, there is a caricature
of a sloppy and unkempt looking man (obviously Dr. Leaman), saying, "Like,
yeah, dude. You gotta get out there and get healthy."
Dr. Leaman is being mocked for his appearance, and it has tainted the healthy
living issues he was promoting. The clients are extremely angry about the
negative press and look for someone else to continue Dr. Leaman's media training.
"Appearance can be important," says Walker. "Your appearance has to comply
with your message. I would definitely tell this person to change their appearance
-- very gently. But I would do it. It is my job."