MARK MY WORDS
Mark’s view
Whenever the news agenda hits hysteria point, Mark offers thoughtful analysis, a wry point of view and an insider’s insight
Latest ‘MARK MY WORDS’ Blog Posts
The pace of life clatters on at the speed of light
I can’t believe July has passed in a flash. Reflecting on the hustle and bustle of modern existence it’s easy to get lost in a constant cycle of digital distractions. Our minutes are meticulously scheduled, leaving no room for interruptions. However, let us take a moment to reflect on the importance of building in a […]
More thoughts on the banking rep meltdown
Seven days’ later, NatWest CEO Alison Rose dramatically revealed she had been the source of the BBC article and admitted the information she provided had been incorrect. After attempting to cling on she resigned at 1.45am the following day.PR expert Mark Borkowski said bank bosses were guilty of using ’20th-century PR to deal with 21st-century […]
More thoughts on the banking rep meltdown.
Seven days’ later, NatWest CEO Alison Rose dramatically revealed she had been the source of the BBC article and admitted the information she provided had been incorrect. After attempting to cling on she resigned at 1.45am the following day.PR expert Mark Borkowski said bank bosses were guilty of using ’20th-century PR to deal with 21st-century […]
The shockwaves emanating from Kevin Spacey’s acquittal will once again force us to consider how we conduct ‘trial by media’.
The shockwaves emanating from Kevin Spacey’s acquittal will once again force us to consider how we conduct ‘trial by media’. Exposing sexual impropriety is, of course, a crucial fourth estate duty. Still, it is just as vital that a clear distinction is drawn between the editorial values of reporting allegations of wrongdoing based on fact and […]
24 hours in the BBC Presentergate spin cycle.
After another discombobulating 24 hours in the BBC Presentergate spin cycle, I find myself dwelling not on where the stakeholding organisations lie on the chessboard, nor on what the story says about the state of contemporary media and mass communication, but on the human beings watching their futures being pinballed around the news agenda. The reason […]
I have finally stopped wincing at the car crash that is Coutts’ Nigel Farage climbdown
I have finally stopped wincing at the car crash that is Coutts’ Nigel Farage climbdown to think about the miscalculations that drove this disaster.Although he was in some ways a commercial risk, it’s clear that distaste for Farage’s political views was the chief reason for Coutts’s attempts to shut down his account.Many factors massively counteracted […]
Significant lessons and warnings for communications and reputation management professionals
Having spent most of the past 48 hours being mined for my thoughts on the BBC Presenter story I will try to distil here what I see as the most significant lessons and warnings for communications and reputation management professionals. Please visit (and subscribe to) the Borkowski Substack for my thoughts in full.The Sun used […]
From my perspective, we find ourselves in incredibly interesting times for the Harry and Meghan brand
Spotify’s choice to sever ties with Meghan and Harry may result in a significant financial setback for the couple. This decision also casts doubts on their dwindling aspirations of attaining the status they crave.Are we witnessing a precarious stack of dominos ready to topple with their other deals? Meghan may have a bright future as […]
In 1985, I was filled with excitement when I first discovered the benefits of the brick mobile phone
As an early adopter, I vividly remember sitting in a pub, taking a phone call, and realising that this could be the answer to working remotely. The idea of running my office from a charming old Cotswold hostelry seemed like utter bliss. Not WFH more WFTP. However, this dream scenario soon diminished as the hidden […]
The rise of social media promised a vibrant public square
The rise of social media promised a vibrant public square, but it also brought forth new challenges. Online trolling, disinformation, and a disconnected public have plagued these spaces.Newsrooms rely on metrics to engage audiences, but we are transforming the digital realm into toxic hellscapes. The latest Reuters Institute Digital News Report reveals a decline in […]
The tragic death of 17-year-old Nahel after being shot by the police and the ensuing wave of riots in France has captured the world’s attention.
On Friday, President Macron blamed social media and video games for the spread of the riots, the latest bombardment in an aggressive anti-rioter communications campaign that has seen French government ministers refuse to mitigate their condemnation of the violence and even the family of the young victim call for an end to the unrest. Of course, […]
Sir John Major’s session at the #KiteFestival yesterday sent my mind into a spin
Political giants, when out of power, exemplify the enormity of being an elegant and true sage. They demonstrate wisdom that surpasses partisan lines, showing us the value of thoughtful reflection and long-term vision. However, today’s political landscape is marred by hostility and a lack of respect for opposing values, amplified by social media sound bites.There […]
It’s been a whirlwind 24 hours for BBC News
First, Andrew Tate granted an exclusive interview from house arrest in Romania, and then Phillip Schofield gave a joint exclusive to the BBC and The Sun.As the BBC struggles to keep pace with the streaming giants, caught in the culture wars crossfire, it should be cautious about proliferating ‘tabloid’ content lest it damages its credibility […]
Water UK.
– Water UK – the industry body for embattled English Water Companies, has launched a PR counter-offensive today after reports that it had overseen over 300k sewage spills in ’22 while making eye-watering profits. This slick exercise in corporate crisis response has successfully established the Water Companies’ narrative on prominent media platforms but also highlights […]
In times of crisis and catastrophe, I’ve witnessed the importance of facing reality head-on
It’s akin to standing on the edge of a cliff, unaware of the impending storm. The looming disaster patiently waits, ready to strike, while those in power remain lost in denial. But embracing the truth, no matter how difficult it may be, is the crucial first step towards averting catastrophe. It grants us the strength […]
Speed kills
An aphorism ingrained in our minds. This week, the news agenda gained momentum through tabloid media narratives, fueling debates on Twitter. From the Holly and Phil estrangement to the King receiving honey from David Beckham, the cacophony of chatter drowned out something profound: ideas and insight.Each incident triggered angst, echoing the diverse passions of the […]
As we approach the coronation, the communications challenges facing Charles III are becoming more apparent.
Today’s reporting on YouGov’s most recent poll shows a slight but definite slide in monarchism and a rise in republicanism and apathy in the UK.Tracked against a similar poll from September 2022, overall support for the monarchy has fallen by 9%, while support for an elected head of state has risen by 6%.These figures aren’t […]
Mark’s Words on Linkedin – Mary Quant
As a fashion designer in the 1960s, Mary Quant was a true trailblazer who introduced new styles and designs and revolutionised how fashion was marketed and branded. Here are some examples of how Quant pioneered a modern, youthful approach to PR, marketing and branding:Making fashion accessible to young women: Quant created designs that were affordable […]
My thoughts in the Telegraph on the passing of Len Goodman. The last great showman: Why Len Goodman’s passing marks the end of an era.
“This old guard didn’t become famous overnight thanks to a TikTok, a reality show or a sex tape,” says branding and PR expert Mark Borkowski. “They rose through the ranks because they were bloody good at what they did and they were grateful and gracious when they found success because it didn’t come overnight. They […]
Mark’s words on LinkedIn – Labour party ad
“Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.”As we slide inexorably from the everyday chaos of political peacetime into the unbridled melee of a British general election campaign, Kier Starmer and the Labour leadership would be wise to take heed of the adage.Labour’s election strategy of courting voters outside its progressive metropolitan […]