Ch. 1 - What is PR?

This chapter aimed to define exactly what public relations is, and what public relations practitioners do. It delved into different definitions of roles, tasks and activities that are involved in being a public relations practitioner.

As a starting point, I found the "ultimate" definition of PR to be invaluable, because it puts the entire chapter in a nutshell...

The ethical and strategic management of communication and relationships in order to build and develop coalitions and policy, identify and manage issues and create and direct messages to achieve sound outcomes within a socially responsible framework.

"Socially responsible framework" jumped out at me, as I have often heard PR practitioners criticised for "spin doctoring" or "bending the truth". This mentality is openly refuted within the very definition of public relations, and I am relieved that the profession is ethical and responsible.

This also made me think of how limited my perception was of public relations and it was great to read about so many different areas that come under the umbrella of PR, and also how it differs from marketing and advertising.

All in all, I found this chapter really refreshing, and it confirmed in my mind that this definitely where I want to be.