Future of public relations in an age of change, complexity and uncertainty

This is the text of a speech on the future of public relations that I delivered at Southampton Solent University (my alma mater) on Wednesday 6 February 2019.

We are in the eye of a maelstrom of change, complexity and uncertainty.

Technological, political, societal and economic. If you think change over the last five years has been rapid, then I promise you, you ain’t seen nothing yet.

As professional communicators we need to be at the forefront of helping businesses, organisations and governments to chart a safe and successful course through these stormy waters.

As you’re fortunate enough to be studying at Southampton Solent I wonder if our maritime colleagues have any advice.

I believe navigating this maelstrom starts with listening and understanding, then doing.

But as a public relations professional you’d expect me to say that. Or you should. Because that is the future of public relations.

You can read the rest of the speech on my PR blog including:

• What is public relations in the future?
• Why social purpose matters.
• How PR became corrupted by media relations.
• Why and influencer isn't an influencer.
• Fake news and deep fakes.
• Artificial intelligence in PR.
• PR and communication measurement and evaluation.
• Crisis communications.
• Equality and diversity in PR.
• Continuous professional development.

Read the full speech here https://sbpr.co/2V59meO