What was a notable criticism of Henry Ford in relation to his public relations image?

A notable criticism of Henry Ford in relation to his public relations image revolves around his anti-organized labor stance. Ford was known for his resistance to labor unions and his opposition to collective bargaining, which significantly affected how he was perceived by workers and labor activists. His aggressive tactics to prevent unionization, including the use of surveillance and intimidation, contributed to a negative public relations image among those who supported workers' rights. This stance was often at odds with the evolving labor movement of the time, leading to increased scrutiny and criticism of his practices and policies.

In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the key elements of Ford’s public relations challenges as directly as his labor issues. While Ford had innovations, criticisms regarding innovation don't directly relate to public relations. His supposed support of Yellow Journalism could be considered more of a perception rather than a fundamental critique of his character, and while he might have been reluctant to engage in public speaking, that factor did not have the same profound impact on his public image as his policies toward labor did. Thus, his anti-organized labor stance stands out as the most significant criticism affecting his public relations narrative.