What is Public Relations (PR)?
Public relations (PR) is the set of techniques and strategies related to managing how information about a company is disseminated to the public and media. Its primary goals are to disseminate company news, maintain a brand image, and minimize negative events.
PR may occur in press releases, news conferences, journalist interviews, social media posts, or other venues. Any attempt to portray oneself can be considered a form of public relations.
Importance and Functions of PR
PR is used to build brand awareness, create positive public opinion, and manage crises. PR helps companies connect with customers, generate leads and sales, attract and retain talent, and navigate difficult situations.
The practice of public relations manages a brand’s reputation – what a brand does, what it says, and what others say about it in the eyes of the public. Intention should lead the way in PR activities to shape audience opinions for desired outcomes.
The Definition and Role of PR Officers
Spelled out, PR stands for “public relations”. PR focuses on building and managing relationships between an organization and stakeholders like customers, employees, investors, journalists, regulators, and the general public.
PR emphasizes cultivating relationships for managing a client’s image. One function is to acquire public support for a company. If the public sympathizes with a brand, they would choose its product over competitors.
As a PR officer, you’ll monitor publicity and research stakeholders’ concerns and expectations. PR is a strategic communication practice that builds mutually beneficial relationships between an organization and its audience.