Public Relations Ethics

Does your company employ a code of ethics for your Account Reps? If not, you need to have your attorney write one up as soon as possible and get the signatures of the Account Reps obtained. You see, there is often a grey area when it comes to publicity and certain areas of gifting, tickets, event attendance, etc.  There are two major associations that oversea ethics, and you don’t want to get on their bad side!

This said, and with regards to information, ensure your code of ethics includes the following;

1.       Preserve the integrity of the process of communication. This means you should be honest and accurate in all communications.  You need to act promptly to correct erroneous communications for which the practitioner is responsible and preserve the free flow of unprejudiced information when giving or receiving gifts by ensuring that gifts are nominal, legal, and infrequent.

2.       Compete fairly among other professionals preserves. This means to promote respect and fair competition among public relations professionals. This also means free and open competition without deliberately undermining a competitor.

3.       Finally, ensure a conflict of interest doesn’t exist. This means you will avoid actions and circumstances that may appear to compromise good business judgment or create a conflict between personal and professional interests. You have to disclose promptly any existing or potential conflict of interest to affected clients or organizations. You also have to ask and encourage clients and customers to determine if a conflict exists after notifying all affected parties.

Until tomorrow,

Coco the CEO