How is Public Relations Used as a Persuasive Tool in Communications?

Public relations specialists are found in nearly every company. Their job is to establish relationships with other organizations or groups of people. They often work with high management positions and help implement the most beneficial relationships for their company. Mass media is the channel through which public relations functions.

PR works closely with the advertising industry, as well. Working with advertisements is where the persuasion comes into play. They use the mass media to promote their company to society and other industries, as well. Their goal is to have as many people aware of the organization as possible. Advertisements are all about persuasion and propaganda, so when people in the public relations field dip into ads, there's no doubt that coaxing will be a part of that, as well.

Ivy Lee, a public relations pioneer, nearly started the persuasive aspect of PR. He vowed to be honest and open with the information he provided. In the end, public relation's main goal is to establish long-lasting relationships with helpful companies, but persuasion plays a big role in this field, as well.