The Impaakt Team
6 min Read Time | August 10th 2021
Key Takeaways
1
It can be tempting to write an article about a lawsuit, an accusation, or an assumption about companies, but this does not solely qualify as impact.
2
You must stick to proven facts only to illustrate a broader issue and stay away from company bashing or glorifying.
3
For lawsuits, take on the topic only if a clear ruling has been established.
“The sixth golden rule is to stick to facts and avoid using allegations or assumptions to build your analysis.”
![Golden Rule No.6 | Avoid Allegations & Assumptions (1) Golden Rule No.6 | Avoid Allegations & Assumptions (1)](https://i0.wp.com/www.impaakt.com/img/empty.png)
What’s the problem?
- Allegations and/or assumptions are not facts and can lead to writing defamatory content.
- If a company has been accused of wrongdoing, it does not demonstrate evidence of guilt.
- If a company is praised for its actions, it does not mean they had a positive impact.
- Often, writers use lawsuits to demonstrate negative impacts, but until a sentence has been given, a lawsuit does not establish anything.
What You Must Do
- Stick to proven facts only and steer clear of repeating reputations, meaning that they are supported by solid evidence.
- For lawsuits, a clear ruling must have been made that establishes the company's wrongdoings.
- Document assertions with reliable sources.
- Refrain from company bashing or glorifying.
Examples
Allegations
- Morgan Stanley has been accused of money laundering.
- ExxonMobil is well-known for being a responsible oil-producing company.
Proven facts
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![Golden Rule No.6 | Avoid Allegations & Assumptions (2) Golden Rule No.6 | Avoid Allegations & Assumptions (2)](https://i0.wp.com/www.impaakt.com/img/empty.png)
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