If a quote from an industry analyst leads to a defamation threat, what should be your primary course of action?

The primary course of action should involve taking the threat seriously and addressing potential legal repercussions. Posting a retraction and apology on social media demonstrates a willingness to rectify the situation and mitigate harm. This proactive approach can help to prevent the escalation of the threat, as it shows accountability and responsiveness to the concerns of the affected party.

By publicly acknowledging the issue, you may reduce the likelihood of legal consequences and improve the relationship with stakeholders, including the industry analyst. This response can also enhance your organization's reputation by illustrating a commitment to ethical communication.

Other options, such as claiming protection under fair report privilege or ignoring the threat, do not adequately address the potential seriousness of defamation claims. Informing a supervisor is necessary, but it is not sufficient as a single response to the actual threat. Engaging directly with the issue indicates a thoughtful and responsible approach to communication in the public relations field.