Common Ethical Challenges in Media Relations
To work successfully in media affairs or public relations, you want to develop a solid understanding of the ethical challenges you can face on a daily basis. Even a seemingly innocent and routine conversation with a reporter can pose ethical questions that the public relations professional must be able to resolve in a second or two.
photo credit: bengreyOne common ethical challenge the public relations professional must address is the use of language. Even a relatively simply choice of words can result in ethical implications. For instance, if you exaggerate the impact of a piece of legislation, it could be construed as trying to mislead the public. Ensuring that language is accurate and honest is not only a matter of ethics, in most cases it is more effective. Because reporters have come to view exaggerated claims as being the rule rather than the exception, you will often find that communication that is honest and straightforward is a far more convincing tool.
When posed with an ethical question regarding language, ask yourself whether the language will pass the test of the media. Will the media question the veracity of the statement you plan to issue? Will anyone 
be able to refute your data? Consider the credibility of any sources that might challenge your statement and your data. Be certain that the language you choose is capable of withstanding a detailed examination.
Misappropriation of credit is another common ethical challenge the public relations professional faces. Ethical problems can arise when a public relations professional feels they must “enhance” the work of their principal or an organization to the point that it extends beyond any work that was legitimately accomplished. This is a struggle that Congressional press secretaries frequently face as the matter of taking credit can be a particularly delicate issue for members of Congress as their survival depends on their ability to demonstrate achievements to their constituents. For instance, did a member only “sponsor” a bill or did they “vigorously support” it? Did they “vote” for it, or did they “champion” it? The choice of wording can make a tremendous difference in how a public figure’s role is portrayed. You must be able to back up all claims when you take credit for your principal and able to justify those claims with documentation.
To learn more about ethical matters in media relations, consider TheCapitol.Net’s Advanced Media Relations Workshop.
Reference: Media Relations Handbook, by Brad Fitch, Section 13.4 Common Ethical Challenges
For more information about media training from TheCapitol.Net, see these resources:
- Media Relations Handbook, by Bradford Fitch
- Live courses in Washington, DC:
- Capitol Learning Audio Courses:
- Maximizing the Internet for the Public Affairs Professional, with Michael Cornfield
- Media Relations for the Public Affairs Professional, A Seven Course Series
- Public Affairs Primer for Nonprofits and Associations
- Media Relations: Merging Policy and Media Strategies
- How the Media Works and How to Work the Media
- Press Conferences and Media Interviews for Scientists and Engineers
Tags: Advanced Media Relations Workshop, Bradford Fitch, Common Ethical Challenges, Ethical Challenges in Public Relations, media relations, Media Relations Handbook, Media training
