Public affairs today is more than just political lobbying. It requires working with other policy-making bodies, such as regulators, commercial organizations and other interested parties. Public Affairs in Practice is the first book to examine the methods public affairs professionals use to make an impact. It covers each aspect of the industry and examines the tools needed to deliver an effective public affairs program. It also highlights the potential benefits of public affairs, including protection from perceived threats of new regulation, identifying new market opportunities and raising the profile of an organization. Not only do the authors consider established markets (the US, UK and Western Europe), but also the opportunities presented to companies by the EU accession states and China, where there are currently very few public affairs professionals. With case studies and tips from industry professionals, this is a practical how-to guide for both practitioners and students.

In addition to traditional management tools, government administrators require a fundamental understanding of the tools available to address the ever-changing context of government communications. Examining the ins and outs of the regulations influencing public information, The Practice of Government Public Relations unveils novel ways to integrate cutting-edge technologies—including Web 2.0 and rapidly emerging social media—to craft and maintain a positive public image. Expert practitioners with extensive government communications experience address key topics of interest and provide an up-to-date overview of best practices. They examine the specifics of government public relations and detail a hands-on approach for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the wide-ranging aspects of government public relations—including how to respond during a crisis.In addition to the tools provided on the accompanying downloadable resources, most chapters include a Best Practice Checklist to help you successfully utilize the communication strategies outlined in the book. Focusing on the roles of government managers enacting policies adopted by elected officials and politicians, this book is ideal for program managers seeking innovative and inexpensive ways to accomplish their programs’ missions. While no manager can be an expert in all aspects of public administration, this book helps you understand the external communications tools available to advance the mission and results of your agency.

Drawing on the expertise of leading figures in the field, this handbook provides an overview of public affairs and government relations for students, CEOs, association executives, politicians, lobbyists and business managers.

"An excellent text for encouraging students to think critically about key public relations issues. Not only does it help students to develop a deeper appreciation of public relations, it also helps them to develop valuable learning skills." - Amanda Coady, The Hague University "A typically excellent piece of work from Jacquie L′Etang. Critical of every basic concept and provocative to all students. Ideal for second and final year undergraduates, plus MA students." - Chris Rushton, Sunderland University "Extending beyond the usual bounds of insularity, this text is designed to encourage critical thought in students and improve practice in workplaces. A refreshing read that is consistently inventive enough to attain both aims." - David McKie, Waikato Management School "At long last fills a void in the landscape of text books on public relations theory and practice... it develops critical thinking skills while exposing interdisciplinary approaches and providing a very solid foundation for lively debate and further study - Julia Jahansoozi, University of Central Lancashire This book introduces students to the key concepts in Public Relations, with 12 chapters providing clear and careful explanations of concepts such as: Reputation Risk Impression management Celebrity Ethics Persuasion and propaganda Emotional and spiritual dimensions of management Promotional culture and globalization Drawing on a wide range of interdisciplinary sources, Jacquie L′Etang also encourages students to think critically about public relations as an occupation. Student exercises, ′critical reflections′, vignettes and ′discipline boxes′ help students to widen their intellectual perspective on the subject, and to really engage the thinking that has shaped both the discipline and practice of public relations.

The Public Relations Strategic Toolkit provides a structured approach to understanding public relations and corporate communications. The focus is on professional skills development as well as approaches that are widely recognised as 'best practice'. Original methods are considered alongside well established procedures to ensure the changing requirements of contemporary practice are reflected. Split into four parts covering the public relations profession, campaign planning, corporate communication and stakeholder engagement, this textbook covers everything involved in the critical practice of public relations in an accessible manner. Features include: definitions of key terms contemporary case studies insight from practitioners handy checklists practical activities and assignments Covering the practicalities of using traditional and social media as well as international considerations, ethics, and PR within contexts from politics to charities, this guide gives you all the critical and practical skills you need to introduce you to a career in public relations.

Exciting, engaging and dealing with both the theory and day-to-day practice of public relations, this is a conscise and approachable alternative to the larger, dryer and more expensive textbooks currently on the market.