Public affairs vs. public relations: What is the difference?

People often struggle with the difference between public affairs and public relations, yet distinguishing the two can be crucial to an organization’s efficiency.

The two types of firms have overlapping qualities, which can make it difficult to find the right choice for your organization’s objectives. Both qualify in building relationships with the public and implementing strategies and campaigns, but their methods and goals differ.

Public affairs relates to matters that concern the public directly. This could include legislation, policing, and public administration, as well as other elements.

Public relations, on the other hand, focuses more on the company’s connection with the public. PR firms could enhance and strengthen that relationship by implementing marketing and campaigning policies or through press releases. PR is often regarded as an extension of the advertising department.

Messaging tends to be less commercial and short-term in the world of public affairs. This is because organizations are homing in on local issues, including matters between the public and a legislative body. There is great importance in building strong and trusting relations between the organization and the community. What it seeks is support against its detractors.