What is PR?
March 23rd, 2009 Posted in PR
So, it has something to do with the public, and something to do with relations…
“What exactly is PR?”
To get clued in:
What Exactly is PR?
Chances are, if you’ve looked at the websites of a few PR firms or searched for definitions, you’re at least slightly confused. What some people call marketing, others call public relations. And then there’s advertising. And publicity. And communications. And branding….
So what is PR, and how does it all fit together?
The truth is, the term public relations (PR) sounds broad because it can be: a public relations professional’s role is constantly changing, and they wear many hats. But don’t be confused: PR firms manage the public’s perception of a company.
“PR firms manage the public’s perception of the company.”
Public relations professionals:
- Write press releases and secure press coverage
- Establish and maintain relationships with the media
- Respond to press inquiries and speak to reporters
- Organize news conferences
- Create sales or marketing material
- Secure speaking engagements
- Write company newsletters
- Write speeches and annual reports
- Develop community outreach programs
- Target and identify strategic audiences
- Assist with crisis management
- Conduct public opinion polls and focus groups
- Communicate the company’s message to the public
Of all these functions, PR is most commonly associated with media relations—the process of establishing and maintaining relationships with the press and securing coverage for a business, whether in the form of articles, television, or radio segments.
“PR allows you to spotlight the things your company has to offer.”
Media Relations
Unlike advertising, public relations allows for cost-effective, high-value placements that increase not just visibility, but credibility. Anybody can buy an ad, but only good PR can get an article in the New York Times.
A commitment to public relations is at the heart of every successful business. According to a Public Relations Gap III Study, “CEOs now believe that PR makes a greater contribution to organizational success than eight other common disciplines (Finance, Legal, Marketing, HR, Information Systems, Sales, Security, Strategic Planning).”
Public relations allows you to manage the public’s perception of your business, raise awareness, and work hand-in-hand with the media to spotlight the things your company has to offer. A good public relations professional promotes your business and establishes strong connections with the public through media relations, research and evaluation, corporate identity, conferences, outreach, and strategic planning.
Because good PR produces both short-term, as well as long-term results, it is critical to make public relations a consistent part of your business. In the end, good PR pays for itself.
 |
Christina Koshzow
Want content written for your Brand that shows up #1 on Search Engines and brings you new customers? Contact us. |
One Response to “What is PR?”
By Carley Lang on Jan 10, 2010
As a PR major, this is definitely one of the most straight-forward and clear-cut explanations of what public relations is that I’ve read. Keeping it simple helps to ensure that more people will gain understanding, and that’s exactly what this piece did.