Something I've Learned From PR That Applies to Life: Take Control of the Narrative

Photo by Wyatt Stanford

At the beginning of each my Introduction to Public Relations class lectures a the University of Oklahoma, my instructor starts with talking about current events and how they relate to public relations. One piece of professional advice that she imparted on us will always stick with me: Take control of the narrative. Never let anyone tell your story.

I’ve been thinking about this piece of wisdom, not only in a PR context, but also in how it relates to real life.

As a society, we value honesty and transparency. We love to discuss rumors but hate them when they pertain to us. We try to get away with lies, but make excuses when we get caught. If we started by taking control of our personal narratives, we could increase the value of our words.

Be transparent about everything you do and prepared to deal with the consequences. If someone asks you about something you did that may not have reflected you in the best light, be honest about it. Don’t make excuses. It’s far better to be honest about what happened.

The reverse is also true. If you hear someone spreading rumors about you, set the record straight. Nobody knows your story like you. Your reputation is on the line. You must get out in front of a rumor and offer proof that it is false.

This truth shouldn’t just apply to you, but to others as well. Pay no attention to rumors you encounter and don’t be the person that spreads rumors. Everything you hear about sources is hearsay until it’s confirmed by the sources themselves. It’s always best to consider how something you hear about people can affect their reputations. 

When you get the opportunity to tell your story, tell it. Give yourself a face and talk about your background. No one can tell your story the same way you can. No one knows your experiences like you.

I’ve been pondering this advice for weeks. I think as a population, we can benefit from a little honesty and transparency, both inwardly and outwardly. We should all do everyone a favor and strive to practise good public relations with each other.

A good place to start is the PRSA Code of Ethics.

If you want to read something about what PR is and is not, read my Odyssey article.