What Is Public Relations? A Beginner’s Guide to PR

Public Relations (PR) is how organisations communicate with the public to build and maintain a positive reputation. The aim is to influence public opinion, improve brand perception, and encourage support from customers, stakeholders, and the wider community.

Whether it’s a press release, social media statement, or brand storytelling, PR helps shape how people see and feel about an organisation.

A Brief History of PR

Although the term “Public Relations” is just over a century old, its principles have existed for thousands of years.

• Early beginnings - Since the earliest civilisations, leaders have used persuasive messaging to gain public support and inspire social change.

• Commercial PR - PR as a profession began around 1903, when journalist Ivy Lee advised Standard Oil to rebuild its public image. His approach included direct communication with workers, press releases, and proactive storytelling.

• Edward Bernays and modern PR - Known as the “father of PR,” Bernays combined psychology (inspired by his uncle, Sigmund Freud) with communication strategy. His 1929 Torches of Freedom campaign famously linked cigarette smoking among women with the women’s rights movement.

  
  

Today, PR continues to evolve, focusing on transparency, ethics, and creating genuine positive change.

The Main Types of PR

Public Relations covers a wide range of strategies. Here are the most common types:

1. Positive PR

Ethical PR that builds a strong reputation by promoting sustainability, employee well-being, and socially responsible practices.

2. Traditional PR

Raising brand awareness through media coverage in print, broadcast, and online publications.

3. Digital PR

Generating backlinks and brand mentions to improve Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and online visibility.

4. Reactive PR

Responding quickly to trending news or journalist requests for expert commentary. Newsjacking is a common example.

5. Investor Relations

Communicating effectively with shareholders and investors while adhering to legal and financial regulations.

6. Corporate Communications

Sharing key organisational updates and messaging to both internal and external audiences.

7. Crisis Communications

Managing and protecting reputation during a PR crisis, often through proactive planning and timely responses.

8. Public Affairs (Lobbying)

Building relationships with policymakers, trade associations, and industry groups to influence decisions that affect the organisation.

The Future of PR

As PR enters its second century, it’s moving away from its less ethical origins. Modern PR focuses on transparency, authenticity, and impact. Positive PR is leading the way, helping brands make a difference while maintaining trust.

Grow With Feel-Good PR

At Lem-uhn, we’re a feel-good PR agency prioritising happiness and ethical impact. We help purpose-driven brands grow their reputation while creating positive change.

Book your Free PR Strategy Audit Call to see how PR can help your brand grow.

FAQs About Public Relations

What is Public Relations?

Public Relations is the strategic communication between an organisation and its audience to build and maintain a positive reputation.

What are the main types of PR?

Common types of PR include Positive PR, Traditional PR, Digital PR, Reactive PR, Investor Relations, Corporate Communications, Crisis Communications, and Public Affairs.

How does PR differ from marketing?

Marketing focuses on driving sales, while PR focuses on building reputation and trust. Both work together to strengthen brand visibility.

Why is PR important?

PR helps shape public perception, builds trust, supports brand credibility, and can drive long-term growth.

How can I get started with PR?

Working with an agency like Lem-uhn can help you identify the best PR strategies for your goals. You can start with a free PR strategy audit call.