Public relations versus publicity: What sets PR apart

Garnering attention for your brand through media relations isn’t all that PR pros do. Not everyone understands that. Here’s how to differentiate the two responsibilities.

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Public relations and publicity are often used interchangeably.

It’s an error worth correcting. Although PR and publicity are related, they are not the same thing.

Here’s Merriam-Webster’s definition of publicity:

· Something that attracts the attention of the public.

· Attention that is given to someone or something by newspapers, magazines, television news programs, etc.

· The activity or business of getting people to give attention to someone or something.

PR pros might define publicity as news coverage, feature stories, executive interviews and speaking engagements. Publicity can be great for brands, building awareness and gaining exposure.

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