Geoffrey MillerVerified account

If you apologise - no matter how sincerely - the dogpile will get worse. It's like rolling over and exposing your belly.

These days, no distinction is drawn between the sort of tedious notpologies misbehaving sportsmen make and the real thing. Bear this in mind

The next thing - for a few days or a week - is complete radio silence. Do not engage with people who want you sacked.

Most of the time - because these things blow over quickly now days - that will be enough.

However, if you have to be a public 'face' for something - a telly show, a book, a brand - then do not cancel engagements.

Brass it out. Treat offendotrons with courtesy, but cut them no slack. Hold them to the same standards to which they hold you.

Point out that it's impossible to engage rationally with people who clean toilets with their tongues and then expect to spray it everywhere.

Be aware, too, that some offendotrons will approach professional associations and admissions boards behind your back.