The good from the bad

I've been reading a lot of articles and seen on the news stories about the relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike in the South. While the result of these natural disasters has been devastating, I think from a P.R. standpoint, this has created an opportunity for large companies and organizations to use their money and talents to aid in the relief.

I just read an article on PR Newswire online that Wal-Mart has partnered with the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and a few other foundations. Their efforts have resulted in a $2.5 million donation to provide support for those in Louisiana and Texas.

This is overwhelming, and really a big step for Wal-Mart's image, as they have donated tangible consumer items such as food, water and clothing in addition to the monetary grants. I like to think that PR gives companies opportunities like this to step up and better their own name by coming to the aid of others in a time of need.

Understand the World and Understand Your Audience

One of the most interesting facets of Public Relations and writing is that you are dealing with sensitive issues that are derived from a multitude of sources and areas. In reality as a good PR writer and figure you need to really have a solid foundation for the economy not just in our country but in the world. You need to be a business minded individual first and a communicator second. If you constantly keep up on current events that are affecting our world it will make you a sharp informed Publicist that will be ready for anything and will have the knowledge to put client’s minds at ease. If knowledge is power and Public Relations writers control that knowledge and information it only makes sense to educate yourself.

As an Economics minor I find myself reading the Economist regularly and overall I think this should be a great read for anybody in the PR industry. This link will take you to a magazine that is well versed in all areas of the world and will help you see things from the big picture.

Economics is the study of human behavior and Publicist attempt to manage behavior makes sense!