A recent blog post by Todd Defren explores the ever-changing public relations profession. Similarly, a year ago, Defren wrote about the waning emphasis on ‘Media Relations.” However, today media relations is arguably one of the most important elements of PR today. Thus, suggesting that increased mainstream media results in increased online media and social channels. However, according to Defren, one area of PR that has accelerated much faster than expected is “Customer Service.”
Overall, daily PR activities have started to incorporate new tasks like monitoring social networks for clients and handling consumer complaints and other Customer Service issues. Yet, another showcase of how the profession continues to encompass more sectors of the business industry.
This is not hard to imagine; PR practitioners are trained to employ strategic communication after carefully researching their targeted audience. These practitioners thrive by ‘getting into the shoes’ of others to really understand who their audience really is.
From a public health perspective, the swift towards a more customer-related PR approach will greatly aid in guaranteeing that each respectable audience is getting applicable information. The more you know about your audience the better chance you will have at influencing them towards healthier, risk reduction practices.
For more information about strategic communication and marketing in the public health field check out this very informative video featuring Susan D. Kirby, Dr. P.H, M.P.H.
Edie Smith
May 18, 2010
This is very interesting ! Being a communications major in college I can certainly see how PR is moving in this direction to service clients.
Blank Slate:
May 25, 2010
Edie, thanks for the insight. It is interesting to look at how the profession has changed over the past few years, and how it will continue to encompass more and more sectors.