Describe the purpose of public relations.

The purpose of public relations is to manage the spread of information between an organization and the public. This involves communicating the organization's message, establishing a positive image, and building relationships with various stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and the media.

Public relations efforts are designed to create understanding and goodwill toward the organization. This can include activities such as press releases, media relations, community engagement, and crisis management. By effectively managing public perception, organizations can foster trust and loyalty, which are crucial for long-term success.

In contrast to advertising, which primarily focuses on promoting a product or service to drive sales, public relations emphasizes maintaining a favorable image and open communication with the public. Managing customer complaints or directly increasing sales are often aspects tied to customer service and marketing strategies, rather than the core function of public relations. Consequently, understanding the distinction of public relations within the broader scope of marketing and communication is essential for effective organizational strategy.