On Public Relations

Matthew Ebel — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:48:44 +0000

I hate the fact that every time I introduce myself as a Christian I have to immediately append “but no, I’m not that kind of Christian.” It’s a shame that a small number of idiots who think they’re doing the right thing can ruin something for so many people.

It’s all about the image you portray to the public. We all have two sides- every person, company, organization, even our pets. You have the public face and the private face. The reason we keep the two separate is not because it’s dirty or reprehensible, it’s because the private does not necessarily reflect the interests of the entire group.

Our military kills people, but the recruiter won’t tell you “join us so you can shoot people.” That’s not our military’s main purpose.

Our mothers and fathers spank their children, but they don’t announce it to people they meet for the first time. “Hi there! I whipped my boy’s butt last night!” That’s not what parenting is about.

Public relations is all about putting your best foot forward and making the right first impression. When you know your group or company is already fighting an uphill battle, everything you say and do speaks to the conduct of all involved. The fine line between private and public image must be made clear.

Don’t be ashamed of what you do in private, but don’t be ready to jump in front of the press corps and announce it either.

Matthew Ebel » image

On Public Relations