Although they differ in practice, journalistic and public relations are two professions that share many of the same attributes and functions. In addition, they are inexplicably dependent. In March of 2010, Australian news analysis and commentary website Crikey and Crikey and the Australian Centre for Independent Journalism discovered that in 10 hardcopy publications, almost 55% of the stories analyzed were influenced by a form of PR. Thus, even though the PR industry relies upon journalists to distribute their press releases to promote their cause, journalists depend on PR professionals to create and distribute news sources.
However, the current media and news environment have brought about more connections between PR and journalism since traditional media is moving online, and the non-trained citizen journalist and blogger is taking upon the share market of “news which was once only the domain of journalists. While the newspaper’s hard copy shrinks, so are journalism jobs, which means that more and more excellent journalists and former press employees have shifted to PR.
The distinctions between the two are becoming blurred. Here’s a reminder of the distinct differences between PR and journalism.
Serving the general public as opposed to helping the consumer. The fundamental difference between PR and journalism lies in the purpose they serve. The underlying principle of journalism is to provide services to the general public and equalizer and control government and society. Journalists are accountable for being in the public’s best interests regardless of divulging uncomfortable or difficult facts. PR, in contrast, is in the best interest of its clients or the organization that pays them. There is no strict moral or ethical code in PR.
Objectivity. The concept of objectivity is among the main journalistic principles. Journalistic objectivity is the use of an unpersonal and distant voice to present something objectively and objectively. PR is fundamentally neutral, their main goal is to market its client’s interests from a partial viewpoint.
Despite the inherent distinctions, journalism and public relations are in a more synergistic relationship. This symbiosis can open an array of jobs for professionals in these areas. Should you be a reporter who is interested in studying more concerning public relations, what better way to not take one of the many public relations classes? Employers today are seeking a wide range of abilities from potential employees. PR courses can help you get ahead of the competition whether you’re looking to learn as an editor, do public relations work or even dabble in both.
Suppose it’s your passion for public relations or journalism. In that case, the most effective way to get started in your career is by taking the journalism program to give you an advantage when you try for your first job, for instance, as a freelance journalist. Remember to Never stop pursuing your goals.
