Public Relations is a complicated term. In its broadest sense, it encompasses anything that informs the public’s perception of you – from the way you answer the phone to how you react in a crisis. Every interaction, message or opinion has the possibility of helping or hurting your most valuable asset: your reputation.

In its more specific usage, PR is the heightening of your public profile through media coverage or publicity. Because stories and mentions in print, broadcast and social media are perceived as more objective than paid advertising, they have a higher credibility with the public and therefore a greater value. And – just like all of the other details that make up your brand image – they don’t happen by accident.

In addition, PR is cumulative:  every impression – good or bad – builds upon itself. Therefore, consistent and proactive PR will yield greater results than its occasional use.