Fundamentally, PR involves the strategic management of communication between an organisation and its diverse stakeholders, such as customers, employees, investors and the public.


The goal of PR is to cultivate a positive image and build a solid relationship with these audiences. However, many people still don't know exactly what PR is and some still believe a few myths about public relations.

PR Is the Same as Advertising

Myth

PR is advertising — many believe that paid advertisements are PR, or at least a part of it.


Truth

PR is not advertising and is actually earned media. Where advertising focuses on more short-term goals, such as sales, PR focuses on long-term goals, such as building a positive brand image.


All Publicity Is Good Publicity

Myth

We have all heard the saying that all PR is good PR — this is based on the belief that it doesn't matter what is being said about your brand; the fact that they are talking about you is good enough.


Truth

Negative media mentions of your brand can severely damage your brand’s reputation and can leave a long-lasting negative impact on how your brand is perceived by the public.


PR Is Just About Getting Media Coverage

Myth

PR is only writing press releases and pitching to journalists to get your brand media coverage.


Truth

PR is so much more than that — PR consists of:

  • reputation management

  • crisis communication

  • event planning

  • community relations

  • media relations

  • corporate relations, and

  • social media management.


PR Works Overnight

Myth

Internally, many are under the belief that one press release will give a brand instant results.


Truth

Public relations is a long-term game. It takes time and effort to build trust and credibility with the media, public and stakeholders.


Only Big Brands Need PR

Myth

Another myth that surrounds PR is that it is only for big brands that have big budgets to spend.


Truth

This is not the case; smaller brands need PR just as much as the bigger ones. A PR strategy will help get your brand's mission out to the public, build its reputation and increase awareness in your community.


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For more PR insights, take a look at How to Leverage Social Media for an Impactful PR Strategy [Infographic].

 

*Image courtesy of Canva