Defining Public Relations

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Defining Public Relations What is Public Relations (PR)? PR is difficult to define because it encompasses so many areas and today has developed into a multi-million dollar industry influencing all aspects of our lives (Adams et al, 1999). However, it is important to be able to compare and contrast the various definitions in order to have a complete understanding of what public relations is and how it is used. The public is a large population to consider, making it easier to understand why it is so difficult to define PR. Along with a large population come many perceptions, beliefs, ideas, and opinions, all influences on PR. I define public relations as the act/s used by individuals, corporations, and groups to influence ones opinions and/or decisions about a product, idea, person/s, company/s, etc. and the public. Robert L. Heath defines PR as ‘functions of management/supervisors that foster an organization's ability to strategically listen to, appreciate, and respond to those persons who's mutually beneficial relationships with the organization are necessary if it is to achieve its missions and values (Health, 2007)'. In 1950 PRSA enacted the first "Professional Standards for the Practice of Public Relations," followed by the current Code of Ethics which includes six core values and six code provisions. The core values are "Advocacy, Honesty, Expertise, Independence, Loyalty, and Fairness and code provisions are "Free Flow of Information, Competition, Disclosure of Information, Safeguarding Confidences, Conflicts of Interest, and Enhancing the Profession." Even with these standards defining PR is difficult and organizations struggle with public perception of PR. Human nature influences choices for both organizations as well as the public. These standards have helped in defining the outcome of PR and the field endeavoring to create a professional profession ensuring what is relayed to the public and that it be ethical, truthful, and accurate. There are many definitions of Public Relations and the basic definition is typically the same. However, interpretation of how PR is conducted plays a role in the outcome of many definitions of PR. For example, PR can be positive or negative depending on if the information is skewed with the intent to persuade in a positive or negative manner. Politicians use PR to influence voters to vote for them and to make their opponent look bad. PR encompasses so many areas and includes the public which are both internal and external (Seitel, 2004).

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