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Use
data you collect to establish your public relations goal. For example, correct that inaccuracy, clarify that misconception or spike that damaging rumor.
To reach that goal, you need a strategy to show you how to get there. Select from three: change existing perception, create perception/opinion where none exists, or reinforce existing perception. And make certain
strategy you select fits your public relations goal.
Now, you must prepare a message designed to alter perception among members of that target audience. It must be crystal-clear about what it intends to correct, clarify or change, and it must be persuasive and compelling – all at
same time! Above all, as your message makes
case for your point of view, it must be believable.
A daunting assignment for sure – alter what a lot of people have come to believe. It’s a big job, but worth
effort.
Now, you must deliver your message to
eyes and ears of members of that key target audience. And communications tactics will help you do it. The choice is broad and includes tactics such as customer or member briefings, brochures, press releases and radio/newspaper interviews as well as newsletters, speeches, facility tours and many more.
Just be sure that
tactics you choose, have a proven record of reaching people like
members of your audience.
How will you know if you’re making any headway? By re-monitoring perceptions among, and asking more questions of those same audience members. This time, however, you watch closely for clear evidence that perceptions are being altered as you planned.
You can always speed things up by using additional communications tactics, and by increasing their frequencies.
Remember that you are using one of
strongest weapons available to any business, non-profit or association. Namely,
process for changing behaviors of their key external audiences in ways that lead directly to achieving their primary operating objectives.
end

Bob Kelly counsels, writes and speaks to business, non-profit and association managers about using the fundamental premise of public relations. He has been DPR, Pepsi-Cola Co.; AGM-PR, Texaco Inc.; VP-PR, Olin Corp.; VP-PR, Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.; director of communications, U.S. Department of the Interior, and deputy assistant press secretary, The White House. mailto:bobkelly@TNI.net Visit:http://www.prcommentary.com