Let’s stop bashing PR
Public relations pros frequently bemoan the practices of their peers. The author is calling for a yearlong moratorium on such carping, in favor of offering solutions.
One—which I should have known better than to read—titled “Curing the PR Patient in 2013,” cites symptoms without suggesting remedies. Cue the usual issues raised such posts: outdated metrics, a lack of understanding of social media, the industry’s spotty reputation.
Yawn.
Look, it’s no secret that public relations, like many other industries, has its share of problems and bad apples. Life isn’t perfect, nor is PR. But the constant screed bemoaning every little flaw has to stop. It’s destroying the vitality and value of the profession, and it makes PR professionals look like fools in front of the very people we are trying to impress: current and potential clients.
Who really benefits?
I have a theory that much of the hand-wringing comes from PR pros trying to make a name for themselves. That’s fine if it’s done in a careful and structured manner. Otherwise, it can manifest itself in far more problems than it purports to cure.
What other industry faces the conundrum of those who work within it doing everything they can to tear it apart for their own benefit? (OK, aside from politics.)
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