Public Relations (PR) was first created in 1889 when an inventor hired a small team to publicize his latest projects. Many years later, in the 1920s, the field began to take shape. Now known as the father of PR, Edward L. Bernays shared his views on two-way communication between companies and the public they served. These ideas were ahead of their time but would be the foundation this complex field would be built upon.
With a quick Google search, PR is defined as “the professional maintenance of a favorable public image by a company or other organization or a famous person.” The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) says it is “a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics.”
To me, PR has always been about relationship building. Since I started my journey in the field in college, I have always defined it as a strategic way to share stories and build relationships on behalf of brands and organizations with the people that matter most to them.
Public Relations + Social Media
Currently, there seems to be more confusion than ever around PR. This is because of the addition of social media. Social media is an incredibly important part of the PR landscape. But it’s not everything. A cohesive plan will include social strategy and traditional placements.
However, this combination is not to undermine the importance of social media. As Edward L. Bernays hypothesized approximately 100 years ago, it is vital for two-way communication between brands and the public they serve. Now more than ever, companies are expected to be present on social media. In part to allow for communication with consumers. But also to share additional value as a brand with their fans.
PR + Maida Media
What sets Maida Media apart is our ability to manage media deliverables with synergy. Both social and traditional media have a place in a cohesive plan. Here, created plans encompass three factors. By combining up-to-date research, unique experiences, and continued education, plans are crafted that make a difference for your brand.