I've been thinking about the Web 2.0 Expo NY Web2Open. My topic is PR, not Propaganda, on November 19. Although the format will be unconference, I wanted to get you thinking about the differences - and please do stop by to meet me and the team who will be leading those conversations presented by the PodCamp Foundation.
PR, not Propaganda
What does it mean, what are the differences? Let's start with a working definition from Wikipedia:
We're talking about genuine two-way communication, not just dissemination; information, not indoctrination; attention-getting, not agitprop; proof, not the truth (truth is a conclusion the other person gets to make). And so on.
PR *does* bear some elements of propaganda, however. Manipulation, for example. Be honest: PR people are looking for a given outcome. That's why you were hired. So you have to look at the other elements of propaganda and avoid them - coercion, selective presentation of the facts, insistence on only ONE conclusion, broadcasting, or outright falsehood. There are probably more.
Then ask:
- Is what I'm saying true?
- Have I presented my client or product in a fair manner?
- Am I still listening?
- Have I made my affiliations or motivations clear?
- Am I prepared to accept the conclusions of my potential customer?
Are you? Weigh in!
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