The Myths of PR

Before I started working in PR I thought I had a general understanding of what the industry was about. After working in PR for over three years, however, I have come to find that most of what I had heard about PR are myths. Here are just a few:

Saying “off the record” after disclosing confidential information will ensure the information is not shared publicly

This is an important myth to debunk, especially for executives who often participate in media briefings. If there is something that you do not want journalists to write/talk about, do not tell them – it’s as simple as that. While we want to believe that by saying something is “off the record” it will be omitted from a story, that just isn’t realistic.

You get to meet celebs and go to fun parties

This may be true of someone who does PR for companies like Instagram or Nike, but in tech PR we focus on placing our clients in the top business and tech publications.

Any press is good press

Some people may argue with me on this one, but here at Bospar we work to get our clients positive coverage.

Once you get your big break, you are set

If only it were that easy. It is important to create a plan to continue the momentum of any big launch or announcement in order to maintain visibility. A one-and-done approach is the equivalent of a wasted opportunity. To maximize PR ROI, you should fully leverage the momentum a big announcement generates.

Only bad products/companies need PR

Good products and companies need PR just as much as struggling companies. You could have the best product or company out there, but if nobody has heard of you, what good is it?

Anyone can do PR

It takes a certain type of person with a certain personality to do what we do day in and day out. It is a myth that a “people person” is a natural PR pro.

It can be difficult to juggle dealing with clients, media and internal account teams. A PR professional must have the ability to multitask at the highest level, work odd hours, and think strategically and creatively on the spot, all while being hard-working, dedicated, articulate, driven, and attentive to detail and deadlines. 

If only it were as easy as showing up for parties and being friendly!