A colleague forwarded me a very interesting article in BusinessWeek, and related it to the topics explored on this blog. It was such a refreshing read, and encouraging to know that well regarded news sources are picking up on the value of PR during the downturn, and that I am not just rambling: http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/apr2009/sb20090410_482109.htm?campaign_id=rss_topStories
While I don’t completely agree with the points made in the article, especially the suggested distinction between PR and Advertising, it is true that lines remain blurred with these two unecessarily codependent professions. In fact, I think the economic crisis in PR, and Advertising, lies exactly in that misguided perception. The media, companies, communities, government institutions, and in many cases, PR professionals, have always been so eager to toss both professions in a marketing box just to get whatever result quickly, rather than approach each communication solution for what it can offer, first independently, and then as part of a well-thought out IMC process.
So, essentially, and ironically, as PR people we continue to have a perception issue with our profession. We must take this time to define our sphere, our philosophy, communicate our strengths, and support them strongly to others. That’s one of the reasons why I started this blog.
One of endless challenges for me as a PR practitioner has been to constantly educate clients, prospective clients, and peers about the difference between PR and Advertising– and defending my argument of why the strategic, cost-effective process of managing perception with PR accurately contributes to an effective communications campaign.
It’s refreshing to see that others are agreeing with the value PR can bring to the table, by finding and communicating the truth in a story… and in a much more cost-effective way than Advertising ever will.
Tags: Advertising and PR, difference of PR and advertising, economy and PR, managing perception, PR definition
Public Relations embodies so much these days, from social media to grassroots initiatives to public speaking, it’s hard to believe its value is misunderstood. I think one of the reasons advertising and PR have become so intertiwned over the past decade, is that former advertising firms (and vice-versa PR firms) have expanded their offerings to become a one-stop shop. Navigating through the hodgepodge of integrated marketing firms can be tricky, but by reviewing former successes and client rosters you can better identify which organizations are best-suited for your company.
PR is a necessary ingredient of so many successful businesses. You’ll find that most Fortune 500 companies employ PR firms on a long-term basis to enhance their marketing efforts and image during bull times and bear times.