THE ROLE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS IN BUILDING CORPORATE IMAGE.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
In any organization, the need to maintain the image of the organization is of great importance hence this study surveys the role of public relations in building corporate image. It set out to find out whether Nigerian Airways Enugu, has in any way established rapport and good will in the course of its dealings with the various publics. It will also identify whether the customers are satisfied with the services of the organization. This study will also x-ray how far the public relations roles has helped or will help to co-ordinate the organization and its various publics. If the publics perception of the Nigerian Airways image when determined is bad, then the researcher would be in a position to advise and make necessary recommendations that will enhance its image. More so the study will contribute to the knowledge of generality of Nigerians in their guest for enhancement of corporate image in government parastatals.
Nigerian Airways is a public corporation and business enterprise and as such is required to succeed. As a public institute devoted to the servicing of the public interest it must have the interest of its publics as a major consideration in the bid to achieve public co-operation and acceptance. As a business institution, the Nigerian Airways must use business principles to operate in such a way that it becomes economically independence against crumbling.
Against this background, Nigerian Airways instituted the public relations department to help foster the activities of the organization in order to achieve its aims and objectives. This is so because no business oriented organization can make any meaningful achievement without the help and use of a public relations practitioner. It is easily identifiable that the basic philosophy underlying public relations practice is of prime importance in all spheres of activities. The public relations man engages himself in doing good and trying to get credit for the good he has done. This involves wining friend keeping them and influencing them as well as others. It also involves looking good by building and sustaining good image or good will through good deeds that will win favourable considerations for Nigerian Airways Enugu among members of the public.
Public relations, by definition according to Frank Jefeckins states that public relations is the process of assessing consumer wants, establishing communication, fostering goodwill so that the consumer wants or needs can be profitably satisfied”. Another definition according to the editors of public relations news states that public relations is a “a philosophy and function of management, which evaluates public attitudes, identifies the polices of an individual or organization with public interest and execute a programme of actions to earn public understanding and acceptance”
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