The profession of a public relations has evolved from
(A) News supply
(B) Advertising
(C) Personal selling
(D) Press agentry
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
Public relations (PR) evolved from advertising as businesses sought to build long-term relationships with audiences rather than just promoting products. Since advertising focuses on paid promotions, PR took a different approach by using earned media, storytelling, and strategic communication. This shift allowed brands to create trust and credibility beyond traditional advertisements.
Initially, advertising laid the foundation for persuasive communication. However, as organizations recognized the need to manage public perception, PR emerged as a strategic discipline focusing on media relations, crisis management, and brand reputation. Over time, PR professionals integrated techniques from advertising, such as audience targeting and messaging strategies, to enhance their effectiveness.
Now, let’s analyze the incorrect options. News supply focuses on delivering information rather than shaping brand perception. Personal selling involves direct interaction with customers, whereas PR works on mass communication. Press agentry, which involves publicity stunts and hype, represents only an early phase of PR, not its main source of evolution.
In conclusion, public relations evolved from advertising by adopting persuasive techniques while focusing on trust-building and brand reputation. Since PR continues to grow as a key communication field, it plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and maintaining corporate image.
