Future Public Relations Professional: Code of Ethics

RETONJAH BURDETTECOMM 3530SUMMER 2016

Preamble of FPRP

As a future public relations professional, this code of ethics provides a sense of guidance in upholding ethical values.

These codes are designed as expectations that individuals seeking careers in public relations handle potential ethical issues carefully.

While this code of ethics provides tenets for future professionals, the loyalty to preexisting PRSA codes come first.

In order to thrive in the field of public relations, one must be willing to have integrity, aim for excellence and be accountable for the actions of themselves and their professional peers.

Values of Future Public Relations Professionals

While individual values may differ based on family or faith, the following set of values serve as the cornerstones for future public relations professionals code of ethics. In order to provide direction for those seeking careers in the field, these values are essential to decisions made within the profession and function as additional guidelines subsequent to those of PRSA.

Social Responsibility

In order to be effective, we must be diverse in advocacy and maintain positive relationships with society, providing support for local and global issues, avoid creating new problems and understanding the power of influence in strategic communication and an overall accountability for these interactions.

Quality

Future public relations professionals must complete superior work, possess the ability to correct mistakes and accept constructive criticism to ensure that improvement exceeds standards and expectations.

Honesty

As a future public professional, we must uphold ideals of truthfulness and act in good faith, avoid manipulating the individuals we represent and deceiving the public. Furthermore, refraining from anything closely perceived as falsehood.

Collaboration

Cooperative work efforts are essential to success. We must maintain supportive environments, encourage discussion and respect the opinions and contributions of others to benefit the profession.

Fairness

We must be free of bias, avoiding generalizations and stereotypes specific to race, gender, socio-economic status or sexuality, ensuring equality within advocacy, the public and the profession.

Loyalty

As a future public relations professional, we must be dedicated to the work, avoiding temptations, conflicts of interest and revealing confidential information. Furthermore upholding commitments to those we represent and sustaining public trust within parameters of the law.

Autonomy

Remain a sense of independence in thinking and be held responsible for your actions. Stand firm in the ability to speak up, speak out and not be easily influenced by promises of personal gain.

Progress

Future public relations professionals, must not only strive for growth within the communication field, but avoid shortcuts and set a number of achievable goals to accomplish for themselves and their place of employment.

Expertise

The learning process does not stop when hired as a public relations professional. One must continue to gain knowledge throughout their career, remaining updated on practices, PRSA policies, worldly affairs and thorough in research to ensure the highest level of professionalism and credibility.

Conduct

Understand that as a future public relations professional, you are no longer just a representative of yourself. You must carry yourself with a sense of integrity and dignity and remember that you are a reflection of the profession and individuals you represent.