PR
CORNER: Little things make your reputation
(Excerpts from the Kiwanis
International Public Relations Handbook.)
submitted by Bill Butts
Public relations isn't just publicity. In fact, all contacts with the public are "public relations." To ensure each of these contacts helps build the Kiwanis image is the responsibility of every Kiwanian, from the club president to the newest member. Public relations is, as the military says, "an allhands job.", and it's especially important to be constantly aware of all facets of Kiwanis contact with the public. Here are some "small", but very important Kiwanis PR opportunities:
- Thankyou letters for speakers and those who contribute time, effort, or money to Kiwanis activities. Present a token of appreciation, if appropriate. Certificates, coffee mugs, coasters, or other small Kiwanis Family Store for available items or call 800-KIWANIS, Ext. 411.)
- Public expressions of appreciation to local news people for th gifts with your club name are a way of saying thanks and promoting your club. (Go to the e help they render through their columns and broadcasts.
- Invitations to editors, station managers, mayors, school superintendents, and other public officials to visit Kiwanis meetings and get acquainted with your members.
- Letters of congratulations to newly elected leaders of other service, civic, religious, and community groups.
- Letters of appreciation to public officials who perform their duties in an outstanding manner.
- Kiwanis support to worthy community efforts such as the Red Cross, blood bank, Salvation Army shelter, etc.
- Hospitality to every guest, whether Kiwanian, civic official, or reporter, who attends a Kiwanis meeting or event.
- Kiwanis representation on important civic bodies such as the chamber of commerce, school board, Community Chest, etc.
- Maintaining Kiwanis road signs as well as signs designating the club's meeting place.
Every Kiwanis service project constitutes good public relations, whether it is publicized or not. In fact, publicity may not be desirable for some projects-e.g., when public notice might be embarrassing to recipients of Kiwanis' helping hand. However, no Kiwanis club can long maintain its reputation without a real commitment to community service. After all, what we do speaks louder than what we say-and what Kiwanis does is service.
