Yes Man Mentality is a No Go for PR

Public Relations Specialists are the line of communication between companies and the world. They most hold employees and companies accountable for their actions. PR specialists have to be honest and advocate for the publics interest. Transparency from a PR specialist is key for both the company and the public.

Being a "yes man" PR specialist has no value for anyone. The company, CEO, and employees need someone to be firm and assertive when explaining their point. PR specialists who agree with everything the CEO does and says has no respect from everyone else. One must be fearless, have a backbone, and not be afraid of calling someone out when they're wrong. A PR specialist's role isn't to be an echo for what the boss says, but to stand up for what is right and wrong.

PR specialists are advocating for what is ethical, NOT for what their boss wants to hear. One must understand legal issues, constantly check the facts, and represent the whole hearted truth whether it is for or against the company.

The public wants a PR representative to be completeley transparent, factual, and honest when explaining a situation or issue- if not what's the point. When a PR specialist is constantly protecting the company and misconstruing facts to the public their statement has little to no value. That being said PR specialist are fast thinking and strategic when releasing statements. They want to represent their client well, but also keep integrity of a situation or circumstance.

Loyalty to both the client and public are key. One must stay loyal to who one is working for as well staying loyal to the truth whether that is for or against their clients. PR specialists are creative when releasing statements. They try to stay loyal to their client while maintaining honesty and working for public interest.

https://www.ragan.com/the-time-is-now-to-put-pr-ethics-front-and-center/

Following the code of ethics is key to avoid "kill the messenger" type of situations. According to Bulldog Reporter, having access to key makers is important for crisis control.

PR specialist face new ethical issues now since the constant evolution of technology: data. Data has always been a key factor for PR specialists when collecting information, however the vast amount in today's world brings about an entirely new issue. According to Karen Swim, the volume of information that is attainable today brings up "new ethical and moral questions."

Data isn't black and white anymore. It can be skewed and biased when presenting facts. This can be seen most often in politics today. According to Kalev H. Leetaru, senior fellow for George Washington University Center for Cyber and homeland Security, explains that if data scientists don't recognize biases and societal impact, they will likely chase projects that offer most funding and greatest chance of publication.

So how do PR specialist present data? They must remember to serve for public interest while also representing their client in an honest way. The key however according to PRSA Code of Ethics is to preserve the "integrity of the process of information."

PR specialists must be a transparent backbone of the truth.