Public Relations (PR) is a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organisations and their audiences. It encompasses various types, each targeting different channels and audiences for specific purposes. Understanding the seven types of PR is crucial for businesses looking to manage their reputation, improve visibility, and achieve long-term success.

1. Media Relations
Media relations is perhaps the most recognisable form of PR. It focuses on building relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets to secure positive coverage. The goal is to generate earned media through press releases, interviews, opinion pieces, and feature articles.

Key activities include:
Writing and distributing press releases
Pitching stories to journalists
Organising press conferences or media briefings
Effective media relations enhance brand credibility and public trust.

2. Community Relations
Community relations aim to create a positive relationship between a company and the local community. This form of PR shows that a business is committed to social responsibility and genuinely cares about its impact.

Typical initiatives include:
Sponsoring local events or charities
Employee volunteering programmes
Partnerships with local schools or organisations
Strong community ties can increase customer loyalty and improve a brand's image.

3. Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) PR
CSR PR focuses on communicating a company’s commitment to ethical practices, sustainability, and social impact. It involves showcasing environmental initiatives, diversity and inclusion policies, or charitable work.

Examples of CSR PR include:
Publishing sustainability reports
Highlighting ethical sourcing or carbon reduction
Promoting employee welfare initiatives
CSR activities, when effectively communicated, enhance reputation and stakeholder trust.

4. Crisis Management
Crisis management PR involves protecting and repairing an organisation’s reputation during or after a crisis. Whether it’s a product recall, legal issue, or social media backlash, timely and transparent communication is essential.

Crisis PR steps may include:
Developing a crisis communication plan
Issuing official statements
Holding media briefings and responding to inquiries
Proactive crisis management can limit reputational damage and restore confidence.

5. Public Affairs (Lobbying)
Public affairs PR, also known as lobbying, deals with influencing public policy and building relationships with government officials. This type of PR is often used by large corporations, trade associations, or NGOs.

Public affairs strategies include:
Meeting with policymakers
Drafting position papers
Participating in public consultations

The aim is to shape legislation or regulation in a way that benefits the organisation.

6. Internal Communications
Internal communications focus on keeping employees informed, engaged, and aligned with the company’s values and goals. It plays a vital role in shaping workplace culture and morale.

Internal PR activities include:
Employee newsletters
Town hall meetings
Intranet updates and staff announcements
A well-informed workforce leads to higher productivity and retention.

7. Strategic Communications and Reputation Management
This type of PR is holistic and long-term. It involves managing all aspects of an organisation’s image and aligning communications with business objectives. Strategic communications often guide all other types of PR.

Key components include:
Brand messaging development
Reputation monitoring and analytics
Stakeholder engagement strategies
Strategic PR ensures consistency and coherence across all touchpoints.

Final Thoughts
PR is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The seven types of PR—media relations, community relations, CSR PR, crisis management, public affairs, internal communications, and strategic communications—each serve distinct purposes but work best when integrated. Together, they help build a strong, trustworthy, and resilient brand.