Blogging 101

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Letter to a Friend

Dear Friend,

I would like to begin by letting you know how much I appreciate your concern for my decision to pursue the field of public relations. I understand that your intentions are sincere but I am also aware of the misconceptions that people can have about public relations.

Often times people assume that the role of public relations practitioners is to distort messages or spin information and then presents it to the public. Based on the knowledge and skills I have learned over the past three years at Marquette University, I can assure you that this is not the objective of public relations.

It is difficult to describe public relations in one simple definition because of the many roles that or "faces" that it has. First and foremost, public relations is based on communication. Public relations practitioners use their ability to communicate with others as a way to build connections and establish relationships with the public; they work as mediators between their client and the public.

Although people can believe the myth that public relations practitioners are manipulators, it is important to understand the positive impact that PR practitioners can have on the success of organizations and individuals. It is their job to help enhance a company, service or individual’s reputation by presenting them in a positive light. For example, in times of crisis, public relations works as a type of damage control and helps organizations maintain a positive reputation and not suffer from negative media exposure.

It is also important to note the significant role that ethics plays amongst public relations practitioners. My education at Marquette University emphasized the importance of ethics and I can assure you that the skills I have learned will help me to make a positive and significant impact in the field of public relations.

I hope I have cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about public relations and that you understand the passion I have for this field. Thanks again for informing me of your concern and please let me know if there is anything else I can clear up for you!

Your friend,

Amanda E




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