23:43
Faizan
Public relations (PR) is a term frequently used in business these days as companies and non-profit organizations of all sizes work to stretch their budgets, in today's challenging economic environment. Many, however, lack a firm grasp of what public relations encompasses and how best to use it.
The Official Definition of Public Relations
The American Heritage Dictionary defines public relations as "the art or science of establishing a favorable relationship with the public." Merriam-Webster states it is "the business of inducing the public to have understanding for and goodwill toward a person, firm or institution." As the term so clearly indicates - it is about relationships... with the public.
The "public" may be a variety of audiences - anyone who has an interest in the organization. Depending on the type of organization this can be employees, investors, donors, community members, and even the media. Rapport is built with the various stakeholders to enhance or maintain a positive image for an organization.
How Is The Purpose of Public Relations Different From Advertising?
While PR is often confused with advertising, the two are quite different. Advertising is the use of paid placements to sell a product or service. PR uses publicity,or exposure that does not require payment, or exposure that does not require payment, in third-party media outlets to create news or items of public interest. These placements add a third-party legitimacy that advertising lacks.
So, who wouldn't like free placement of stories about your product or service? How do you make it happen?
Create news stories. One of the public relations practitioner's primary tools is the news release. Tell your local media about what's going on with your business. Have you signed a new client? Hired a new employee? Has the company received an award or hit a milestone?
The Official Definition of Public Relations
The American Heritage Dictionary defines public relations as "the art or science of establishing a favorable relationship with the public." Merriam-Webster states it is "the business of inducing the public to have understanding for and goodwill toward a person, firm or institution." As the term so clearly indicates - it is about relationships... with the public.
The "public" may be a variety of audiences - anyone who has an interest in the organization. Depending on the type of organization this can be employees, investors, donors, community members, and even the media. Rapport is built with the various stakeholders to enhance or maintain a positive image for an organization.
How Is The Purpose of Public Relations Different From Advertising?
While PR is often confused with advertising, the two are quite different. Advertising is the use of paid placements to sell a product or service. PR uses publicity,or exposure that does not require payment, or exposure that does not require payment, in third-party media outlets to create news or items of public interest. These placements add a third-party legitimacy that advertising lacks.
So, who wouldn't like free placement of stories about your product or service? How do you make it happen?
Create news stories. One of the public relations practitioner's primary tools is the news release. Tell your local media about what's going on with your business. Have you signed a new client? Hired a new employee? Has the company received an award or hit a milestone?
Posted in: business
