By: Cydney Foster
The public relations industry continues to advance its practices. While growth is shown throughout the industry, it still lacks diversity efforts. In a career that represents a multitude of clients, it’s vital that PR organizations improve their efforts toward inclusion.
Lack of Diversity
Despite the recent efforts to improve DEI practices, the PR industry is made up of 70% white professionals. A lack of diversity leads to blind spots when completing tasks. Campaigns that fail to represent desired target audiences can come off as disingenuous. To be a well-rounded organization, it is important that employees represent all backgrounds to provide depth to organizational initiatives.
Diverse Voices in the Workplace
Having a diversified PR workforce allows employees to have different perceptions when working together. A team made up of people who think similarly will inevitably get the work done, but the work will lack multiple viewpoints. Employees from different backgrounds can display their unique abilities as professionals. Having a diverse team will improve clients’ overall satisfaction.
Client Connections
In today’s digital world, PR professionals can work with clients from all over the globe. While this is exciting, it is important that employees communicate interculturally with clients. Whether it is work-related, or deals with traditions and holidays, having a diverse PR team can help connect with clients across diverse backgrounds.
To conclude, companies all over the world are improving their diversity and inclusion efforts. PR being an industry that values connection, it is vital that organizations are open to diversity by promoting a welcoming and comfortable work environment for not only their employees but also their consumers and clients.