Dear Cousin,
I am writing in response to your questions about what public relations is and what public relations professionals write about. The Princeton Review said, “A public relations specialist is an image shaper. Their job is to generate positive publicity for their client and enhance their reputation.” (http://www.princetonreview.com/careers.aspx?cid=171) Being and “image shaper” public relations professionals work closely with media outlets and advertising or marketing to get information to publics. Professionals also gather information from their publics in order to give feedback to their clients and create partnerships. These publics can be employees of the client’s company, customers, the community, groups of interest and the general public.
Public relations professionals can work in many different institutions. Public Relations Society of America said, “Public relations serves a wide variety of institutions in society such as businesses, trade unions, government agencies, voluntary associates, foundations, hospitals, schools, colleges and religious institutions.” (http://www.prsa.org/aboutUs/officialStatement.html) Professionals can choose an institution that caters to their interests or can work at a public relations firm where companies hire the firm for specific events or needs.
The style of writing for public relations is like that of other journalists, short, informative and to the point. Writing for public relations also includes reports, brochures, audits, press releases, newsletters, editorials, announcements and speeches. Each has a specific format that helps the audience understand the message. Writing is an important skill in order to practice public relations. It and other forms of successful communication create a successful public relations practitioner.
In conclusion the PRSA has adopted the following definition of public relations, “Public relations helps an organization and it public adapt mutually to each other.” (http://www.prsa.org) If you have any more questions or concerns feel free to contact me.
-Melanie Fenn
