5 ways PR pros can assist during the pandemic

I am not a healthcare worker. Nor am I a first responder, teacher, truck driver, grocery store worker or scientist. I am a professional communicator.

Every day I am grateful for my family members, friends and neighbors who are at the front lines, battling the COVID-19 pandemic or playing their part in keeping supply chains open and shelves stocked. As they dutifully carry out their daily tasks as essential workers, I find myself asking what can we as public relations professionals do to assist in the overall effort to inform, influence and inspire others during this trying time.

Communicators who work for or with health care systems or government entities have already been using their skills to develop and deliver critical messages. But what about the rest of us?

Here are five things PR practitioners can do personally and professionally to help during pandemic:

1. Do some pro bono work for a local charity.

You have the writing, editing and media relations skills that can help local charities that are making a difference in your community. Volunteer to help get their stories out and help them raise funds or promote their services to individuals and organizations in need.