It is always interesting when I tell my friends or others what I do for a living. Public relations, crisis communications, and social media all come up differently with people. References to all of these fields come from popular culture, movies or TV shows (ex. “Thank you for Smoking” or “Sex in the City”), to specific specializations like event planning.
However, there are some shows out there right now that do present somewhat of a picture of all of these three areas that I currently research, teach, and consult in. For this Fabulous Five post, I will be reviewing five TV shows that do resemble the type of work that I do in PR, Crisis Communications, and Social Media:
- The Pitch: This show just began a few weeks ago on AMC and it provides you with an insight into how agencies compete with each other to get these large accounts. Planning, strategizing, and being creative are all important elements of the creative process. This is one show I share with students and others to show them how professionals operate in strategic communications.
- Scandal: This drama is on ABC and focuses on the area of crisis communications. While the show really deals more with the political sphere, people can get an idea of what happens when a crisis occurs. Whether it is getting a message across or handling a scandal, it is an interesting representation of crisis communications.
- The Apprentice: This reality show on NBC does represent the team work mentality that is necessary for individuals to accomplish a certain task for a client. Whether it is for charity or for a certain cause, people have to learn to work together as well as being a leader on the team. And, at the very end, you have to own up and take responsibility for your actions. I personally liked the first couple of seasons and one of the early winners was actually a graduate from UF. 🙂
- Around the World in 80 Plates: I have to say, I am a foodie – but this new show on Bravo does provide an insight into understanding the landscape of not only another country, but also the food. This is one thing I have shared with others about the importance of practicing and working in another country. By researching the cuisine, you really get an insight into another culture. For PR professionals, we have to be aware of this so we are informed about our audiences before we start our communication plan.
- Undercover Boss: While this CBS show focuses more on the CEO of a company, it does pertain to crisis communications and public relations. Understanding the role of culture and perception of employees on the corporate reputation is essential, and by showcasing the role that senior management has can reflect on the company as well. This show does present the importance of a positive culture is necessary to succeed in these tough economic times, and another justification for PR to help manage this internally.
- Bonus – Mad Men: Many of my friends watch this advertising agency drama from AMC that is in the 1960s. While the show focuses on the drama and storyline between the characters, there are certain terms, roles, and elements of advertising / PR that are highlighted into the storyline. Here is one of the more popular scenes from the first season[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suRDUFpsHus[/youtube]
These are just a few that I came up with that I feel reflects some of the work we do in PR, social media, and crisis communications. I am definitely interested in hearing what you all think about these and if you have others that need to be on this list.
Hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
Karen
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