Stories by Nicole Schuman

PRNEWS often reports on the best practices of communicators and PR professionals, but rarely do we acknowledge the mistakes that make or break a career. We reached out to the wider public relations community to create a list of the seven deadly sins of PR. Committing one or many of these atrocities could end a career or at the very least, take it in the wrong direction.

As the virus continues to impact every business across the globe, there certainly are no right answers on how to tackle different companies’ economic issues. While Airbnb’s heart may have been in the right place, it also may have benefitted from some sort of interior plan instead of placing the burden on the consumer, much like Verizon’s training rollout.

When is it the right time to fire a client? And how do you do it? Some PR firms have issued statements about no longer working with tobacco or foreign dictators, for example. Refusing a client is never an easy decision, but sometimes it’s the only choice you have. We inquire with PR pros about the best ways to break up. 

The White House has turned up the gas on a campaign to discredit Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The Washington Post published an article July 11 outlining the various ways the White House has silenced Fauci over the past several weeks. The report aired a statement from the Trump administration claiming “several White House officials are concerned about the number of times Dr. Fauci has been wrong on things,” which, according to the Post, “included a lengthy list of the scientist’s comments from early in the outbreak.”

Recently, our team at PRNEWS decided to revive a series for our readers: “Ask a Reporter.” With logistical changes in the workforce, as well as a news cycle that just won’t quit, PR and media need to work more harmoniously than ever to get the public the information it needs. During “Ask a Reporter” we will interview a fellow journalist, finding out what works best for them when it comes to media relations.

It’s understandable that some want a break from the constant barrage of social media. But for brands and celebrities, spending more time engaging in social listening might be appropriate, particularly before making big decisions and announcements. Reading the room is basic PR.

Developing relationships with content creators remains a top priority for media relations pros. The pandemic has forced adjustments in this area, but the fundamentals of media relations remain stable.

It’s no secret that during times where marketing and communications budgets continue to be slashed, that teams have to do more with less. Whether it is a reduction in team members or resources, everyone needs to work together even closer to get the job done. One aspect to look at to help alleviate this burden is technology and the tech tapestry.

While the announcement of an effective drug treatment available worldwide for those suffering from the cryptic virus should be something to celebrate, delving into an explanation about pricing for a possibly life-saving drug may cause some reader’s stomachs to churn. Gilead’s statement attempts to strike a delicate balance, focusing on the importance of the treatment while justifying its value. 

There is plenty for PR pros to learn as they watch America’s tourist playgrounds pivot with the increase of coronavirus cases in the south and west. Public officials and companies are scrambling to massage initial guidelines that bolster health and safety for visitors. The state of Nevada and its Las Vegas casinos are walking a fine line as they take a stand in the politicized debate around mask wearing.