Public relations (PR)– building good relations with the company’s various publics by obtaining favorable publicity, building up a good corporate image, and handling or heading off unfavorable rumors, stories, and events. Public relations (PR) include press releases, sponsorships, special events, and Web pages.
PR departments may perform any or all of the following functions.
- Press relations or press agency: Creating and placing newsworthy information in the news media to attract attention to a person, product of service.
- Product publicity: Publicizing specific products
- Public affairs: Building and maintaining relationships with legislators and government officials to influence legislation and regulation.
- Investor relations: Maintaining relationships with shareholders and others in the financial community.