The Cardinal Rule of Public Relations: Everything is Always On Record
The Cardinal Rule of Public Relations: Everything is Always On Record
By Parm Heer
A recent event involving a well-known news reporter has served as an important reminder in the world of Public Relations. BBC presenter Maryam Moshiri was caught showing her middle finger during a live broadcast.
The gaffe is a stark reminder of an age-old adage in PR: When it comes to any interface with media, consider that you are always on record.
The world of news is always on, and in this digital age, there are ample platforms where our words, actions, and even subtleties can be recorded and broadcasted. Missteps are magnified and can live on for an age online. The latest incident attracted much attention on social media and serves to drive home just how important it is for everyone in the public eye, companies included, to be mindful of their words and actions.
Moshiri's mishap illustrates the potential pitfalls that can occur when we let our guard down. For companies and organisations, the stakes can be even higher. A poorly worded statement, a taken-out-of-context quote, or an ill-timed gesture can all spell crisis if broadcast to the world.
In public relations, every interaction counts. Be it a full-length interview or a passing conversation, any information communicated should align with the overall messaging of the organisation. The golden rule to abide by is that nothing is truly off the record when interacting with media.
Maintaining a mindful, well-mannered, and on-message persona during interviews is pivotal. Faux pas like Maryam Moshiri's serves as wake-up calls, emphasising the need for constant caution in the media landscape. Media training, careful preparation, and a conscious understanding of the concept that everything - no matter how minute - can be on record, are fundamental components to help organisations navigate the ever-complex world of modern media.
While navigating the media landscape with caution, it's important to remember that everyone is human and liable to make mistakes. The key to managing them is being prepared, learning from them, and moving forward with added wisdom and empathy.
Remember, the microphone is always hot, the camera is always rolling, so stick to your message and avoid anything that could harm your or the company’s reputation.