Public Relations Perceptions

There is often confusion surrounding the definition of what PR is and the mainstream image of PR practitioners in movies, television shows, etc. doesn’t necessarily help clear up this confusion.

The most well-known PR professional character that I can think of and that many people attribute to what a “real” PR professional does is Samantha Jones from “Sex and the City.” However, the show only glosses over what she does professionally, focusing mostly on PR as a promotional tool. This fictional character doesn’t give a clear understanding of what many PR practitioners do everyday, such as researching, developing strategy and plans, media relations, crisis communication, as well as creating, maintaining and repairing relationships, among others.

Most importantly, PR practitioners are not all flaxen blonde women, running around in stilettos while talking on iPhones. I have red, curly hair and any good PR girl knows that you should wear flats when working an event anyway!

Granted, there are different niche PR practices and I am sure that each one showcases professionals with varying skills and traits. When it comes down to it, PR is really about communicating, building relationships and raising awareness to ultimately drive business growth for clients.

To help de-bunk some of the common misconceptions I run into about PR practitioners, I found an interesting and succinct online article from Suite101.com that discusses some of the top PR myths:

1. Myth: PR and Advertising are the Same

    Fact: PR is Persuasive, Communicated through Non-paid Third Parties

2. Myth: All PR Professionals are Publicists

    Fact: Comprehensive PR Campaigns Often Require Much More than Working with the Media

3. Myth: PR is Just about Sending Press Releases

    Fact: A Press Release is a PR Tool, Not a PR Strategy

4. Myth: PR Professionals Make up News or Distort the Truth

    Fact: PR Professionals Communicate Useful, Factual News to a Targeted Audience

Please take a few minutes to read the full article here: http://tinyurl.com/ydds7lf

Lindsey