What is public relations?

Some people erroneously connect public relations with advertising – but in actuality, public relations and advertising are polar opposites.  Advertising involves paying others to say good things about your company or business.  Public relations, on the other hand, is when others say good things on their own, without payment.

Those involved in public relations for companies do what they can to spread the word about the positive aspects of the company.  It’s not necessarily about products, but rather about the good the company can and will do for society and the community in which it exists.  Strong public relations can result in national exposure for companies, when their good work is noticed and praised by enough people that the story will be carried in the national media.

Advertising can get your company noticed, as well, but public relations adds that objective spin to the good you’re aiming to accomplish.  When a newspaper or television station promote your company, the public knows it’s not being paid to do so – therefore, their opinion is perceived as more accurate.  Public relations is one of the best ways to increase your business and the positive public opinion of your company.