Public Relations

What is it?

Public Relations is the job of interacting with both the management of an organization, as well as the general public, specifically, potential investors, consumers, and employees.  A Public Relations employee has the job of making a company, and their actions, understandable and positively seen by the general public, as well as advising the company on how actions will be interpreted by the general public, and advising for and against certain courses of action.

How is IT involved?

Public Relations are, out of necessity, in constant communication, and a familiarity with any and all methods of communication, traditional media, and emergent media is necessary for an aspiring Public Relations employee.  Social Networking sites like Facebook, and Twitter are both common ways of getting information out, and a knowledge of how they work is essential.

Where can I see it?

Public Relations are seen every day in press conferences, media events, contests online and various television advertisements.  Any company wanting a better image with their target audience, or with the general public will hire a Public Relations employee to help get them to be seen in a better light.

Most advertisements on television, in newspapers, magazines on radios, and on websites are the direct result of a Public Relations decision somewhere along the line.

How can I be a part of it?

Those who are interested in Public Relations should have some skill in communications, management, and be enthusiastic about being in the public eye.  People with an interest in information networks, and social trends would make good Public Relations employees.

What else might I like?

Public Relations people work hand-in-hand with Multimedia Programmers to craft messages, and form public opinion, and work with Project Managers to make sure that the product is on-message and appropriate.

Where can I find out more?

Wikipedia:  Public Relations

Institute for Public Relations:  Research and Education non-profit organization aimed at Public Relations

Canadian Public Relations Society:  Canada only organization aimed at Public Relations Management