Media Relations

Hello everyone.

Today I want to share with you my experience with media relations. I have realized that all PR companies can benefit from building media relations in the sense that it is the media who is best positioned to either to make the image of the company or break it down. Why am I saying this? Well the media can report anything about the company, whether it’s good or bad. It is important for PR practitioners not to run their mouths whenever they are talking to the journalists because a ‘lie can go half-way through before the truth gets a chance to wear its pants’. The PR people could establish a rich network of media contacts, maintain frequent contact with them.

 During my internship, I was assigned to research on Malaysian newspapers, radio stations as well as TV stations. I had to know the circulation and readership of all newspapers. This was to know which newspaper to target when writing a press release. Liaising with local media helped in reminding the public about our event.  We also used the media to encourage a two-way communication. My supervisor told me that by using the media more effectively I will not only enhance the reputation of the company or employees but also for myself as an upcoming PR practitioner. He said keeping a good relationship with journalists will serve me well in the future. The new media and PR is designed to show advanced undergraduates and graduate students as well as PR practitioners how to interact with an organization’s stakeholders. The new media have facilitated a more open, transparent and effective society.

Thank you for reading. J

GORATA RAMOGALE

LUCT