It’s funny to think that so many people don’t understand what PR is, when we practice it everyday. As everyday people, we don’t have to hire public relations professionals or take classes to understand what we are doing; we simply know how we want ourselves to be portrayed and perceived and do what it takes to get there. Take facebook for example, we would never consider leaving an unflattering picture of ourselves tagged for the world to see or post something on somebody’s wall that might embarrass us in the future. We only allow others to see our best side on social networking sites, and will do anything in our power to keep this “public selves” as flawless and pub together as possible.
We are not only our personal publicist on social networking sites in the virtual world, but in the real world as well. We do not want to be seen in a negative light, so we always carry and present ourselves with poise and dignity. We are fun loving and social. We are organized and responsible. We are professional and dignified. We are all of our best aspects rolled into one and put on display for the public.
So, the next time someone asks what public relations is tell them it’s their daily lives. As public relations professionals, we are simply able to manage not only ourselves, but others as well.
Alex-you are saying what goes through my mind everyday! I often find that I know people from my hometown that majored in public relations at some mid-major communications school, and that they have no remote understanding of public relation's platform. To me, everything lies in your speech, your look, your passion and your persuasion.
ReplyDeleteYour post made a light bulb go off in my mind as well-public relations is so much about being likable. In the field of public relations, it is necessary to convey to your audience and clients that you are willing to present yourself on their behalf and that you are worth your daily salary.
I can't help but ruffle my brow when I meet people in the industry (often from mediocre firms)that have no pride in self-representation, especially on behalf of someone else. I am not saying everyone has to look, dress or act the same, but just like you said, being dignified, put-together and professional are necessities if you want to work and be successful in this industry!
Great, observant post.