Public Relations has entered a bold new era. No longer just a back-office function, it has transformed into a strategic powerhouse shaping brand reputation and influence. Companies and leaders now see PR not as an afterthought, but as an essential force driving credibility, trust, and long-term success. The industry has undergone a radical shift with the rise of social media, fundamentally transforming PR strategies. Influencers now play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and engagement. PR is no longer confined to securing media visibility; it has expanded into a dynamic, results-driven discipline focused on meaningful interactions and measurable outcomes. With a younger, more digitally savvy audience emerging, PR professionals face new challenges. Brands and practitioners must be more agile, data-driven, and proactive in crafting business solutions that resonate with their audience. The future of PR lies in adaptability, authenticity, and strategic storytelling that build lasting trust and impact. In our exclusive weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully interacts with leading business leaders to gain their exclusive views and insights on various trends in the PR and communications industry. In conversation with Adgully, Anubhav Singh, Founder of Bridgers, shares his perspectives on how AI is becoming a “silent partner” in PR, the growing power of micro-influencers, why startups must invest in communications early, and how creativity continues to remain central even in a tech-driven landscape.The PR industry is embracing AI like never before. How is Bridgers PR integrating AI into reputation management strategies without losing the human touch?The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is driving a welcome transformation in the Indian Public Relations space . While initially feared, I think AI is turning out to be our silent partner rather than a competitor. Today, a majority of PR Agencies in India are exercising AI Tools to amplify their time management systems and diversify their energy towards more strategic client requirements.At Bridgers, we treat AI tools as our 12th man. It enables the team to comply with daily research & other mundane tasks that usually consume a lot of time. Apart from this, we actively seek AI support for gathering strategic insights that facilitates us in curating tailor-made integrated campaigns for our clients. The usage of AI can also be witnessed in planning Influencer Campaigns and for managing Crisis Communications with real time data insights.With media consumption diversifying, how do you decide the right balance between traditional PR, digital outreach, and influencer-driven campaigns?Well, the short answer to this is that we mix the ingredients according to the client's requirements. In general, the boundaries between traditional and digital PR communications are blurring. Today, the best campaigns are a right mix of traditional PR marrying the digital approach, with a hint of Influencer-driven activities to provide the initiative a holistic approach.Stating this, every business does not require the amalgamation of all three activities at once. The PR plan is curated according to the goals that one needs to achieve from the engagement, and the activities are then clubbed to establish the brands' narratives with strategic precision. Micro-influencers and niche communities are proving more impactful than mass outreach. How do you identify and engage with them effectively?It has been witnessed of late that micro-influencers and small town-based communities are driving more traction for brands when compared to a national-level influencer. The reason might be the strong hold of these content curators on a limited audience group and the personal connection that they have managed to establish.In our case, shortlisting influencers for a campaign depends upon a variety of factors. The objective of the engagement is first laid out along with a reference budget to create a roadmap for the campaign. In the next stage, we extensively deploy AI tools for shortlisting relevant influencers from a sea of content creators that are aligned with our brand's vision and audience preferences. A debriefing session is then held with the selected influencers to bring them in line with the campaign requirements. The AI matrix is then further exercised to drive personalised content for the target audience groups and to map the effectiveness of the overall campaign.Many startups hesitate to invest in PR early on. Why do you believe founders should prioritise strategic communications from day one?Educating early-stage Founders about the importance of PR will always remain a bigger hustle than driving PR activities for them.We are staying in a socially integrated world today where narratives are built and moulded through online channels. In times where information and data are available in abundance, the presence of a robust and credible voice becomes the need of the hour for a brand, and this is where PR pitches in.Today, Startup Communications is not restricted to brands that have raised funds but is extended to even early-stage startups that want to carve a niche for themselves in the industry. Founders who initiate PR activities from an early stage will always hold an advantage over their peers and competitors. A robust communication strategy will not only enhance the storytelling of the brand in front of key stakeholders like investors, government officials, industry partners, etc but will also bring forth the spokesperson in the limelight, which can further open new channels for business and growth opportunities. In layman's terms, it's always better if the media is telling your story rather than yourself.In your experience, what are the most common PR mistakes startups make, and how can they avoid them?The most common drawback that we have witnessed among startup founders is that they lack patience. They usually intermix PR with social media activities and expect real-time business conversions and overnight success. PR is rather a game of chess, which requires utmost patience and strategic moves through and through. PR is also a game of honesty where business and other strategic data points are involved, and when muddled with, it can not only lead to discredibility of the brand but can also amount to a crisis like scenario. It's always in the best interest of the brand to maintain transparency with their PR team with regard to its business numbers and other strategic data points. Another common problem that we have witnessed with startup founders is about determining the effectiveness of the PR campaign. It doesn't matter how well you have performed; there is always something missing. The startup founders need to understand that the media is earned and not governed, as these platforms will treat our campaigns or press releases based on their relevancy and not requests. As the startups grow, so will the media penetration and the magnitude of the campaign.Beyond getting press coverage, what key metrics and indicators do you use to evaluate campaign success?Garnering top tier media stories will always remain one of the strongest indicators for evaluating the success of a campaign. To go with it, we also have media monitoring softwares that measures the impact of generated media stories by calculating their reach, audience demography, and click through rates. Apart from media stories, we also look at other holistic indicators like social media engagement (shares, comments, etc), website engagement, user interactions via influencer activities, and overall ROI generated on the money spent. If the larger objective is met, the campaign is put to an end, and if there are unfulfilled objectives, alterations are done in live campaigns to meet the desired goal.Founder-led storytelling often adds credibility. How do you integrate a founder’s personal brand into overall PR strategy?Presently, the personal branding of a founder is taking centre stage. It's always beneficial if the story of the brand is rooted via the storytelling of the founder. This not only enhances credibility but also helps in building a stronger connection with the target audience. Founder-led storytelling imparts a human touch as the audiences can relate with their personalities, expertise, and hurdles faced during their journey.  Integrating personal branding into a running PR strategy requires a clear vision on the nature and tonality of the alignment and how it will go simultaneously with the larger brand narrative. Once this is clarified, the next big step is identifying key story angles that can be converted into compelling story ideas to resonate with the target audience groups. Post this step, there should be a strategic selection of media and other communication & marketing channels, through which the integration would be carried out. An effective personal branding strategy is driven by authenticity and is always inclined towards the larger goal.How does your approach to PR evolve as a brand moves from the startup phase to scaling nationally or globally?During the initial stage when a startup is operating within a concise region, the objectives of PR communications are very different when compared to their expansion nationally or globally. In the early stages, PR is exercised to create awareness and drive credibility for the brand and its founder. In other terms, PR is used as a brand building tool. Later, when the brand has expanded operations across multiple Indian states or across multiple countries, the objective of PR also escalates to the next level. Now, the primary objective has shifted from brand building to reputation management and engaging multiple stakeholders through well-diversified PR strategies.With the growth of the brand, their media narratives also expand and we now have to take into account the brand's long-term sustenance & expansion plan along with the developments and trends shaping within the industry. Diverse PR strategies are then curated to drive strategic communications across multiple markets within the country or globally.Technology is changing PR delivery, but creativity remains central. How do you ensure your campaigns stay innovative and relevant?I am a firm believer that nothing can surpass the human mind. All these technological innovations are driven by us, and we are the ones who can best optimize them to bring a difference in our day-to-day activities.Curating innovative and relevant campaigns for clients is no different. While on one hand we should seek technological help to map trends, competitors, etc or garner data-driven insights, we must exercise our intelligence and creativity to optimize those data points for curating a compelling campaign on the other hand. The media landscape is continuously evolving and what seems relevant today might fade-off in the future. Hence, staying abreast with industry trends and aligning them with the clients’ requirements are of the utmost necessity today. Yes, we have a robust technological support system presently, however, nothing can overgrow continuous self-adaptation and development with regard to the industry needs.If you had to predict one major shift in the PR industry over the next five years, what would it be and why?To predict what lies ahead in the next 5 years for the PR Industry, we must comprehend the biggest development that we have witnessed in the recent years; which is inclusivity. Today, PR is not limited to print media stories; there is much more to it. The amalgamation of digital PR, influencer & social media-driven activities, along with the advent of new-age communication channels like podcasts etc has opened up limitless possibilities, opening up newer ways to drive a PR campaign or a brand narrative.I assume this inclusivity will grow even thicker in the next five years, and we will see much more compelling brand campaigns and narratives driven in the most unusual ways possible. The PR industry is also embracing the rapid development of AI, and in the next five years, I see AI playing an even bigger role in PR offices — managing core operations and complex tasks.

The public relations and marketing landscape in the UAE is evolving rapidly, shaped by technological innovation, shifting consumer expectations, and the region?ÇÖs unique cultural fabric. As we move deeper into 2025, the future of PR and marketing will be defined by how well brands balance cutting-edge tools like artificial intelligence with the timeless need for authentic, culturally sensitive communication.Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but a practical asset in the UAE?ÇÖs PR toolkit. With the generative AI market in the region expected to reach over two billion dollars by 2030, AI enables marketers and PR professionals to create highly personalised, data-driven campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences. Tools that analyse media preferences, social media activity, and engagement patterns help craft messages that are precisely timed and tailored to local contexts, such as Ramadan or national holidays. This level of sophistication allows brands to connect more meaningfully and efficiently than ever before.However, technology alone cannot build trust or loyalty. The UAE?ÇÖs multicultural population demands more than just targeted messaging; it requires genuine engagement that respects cultural nuances and local values. Arabic media relations remain critical, with outlets like Asharq Bloomberg and the Arabic edition of Khaleej Times gaining prominence. Successful campaigns blend traditional elements with modern digital storytelling to reach both local and expatriate audiences. This cultural sensitivity is not optional but essential in a market where authenticity drives consumer decisions.Sustainability and social responsibility have also moved to the forefront of brand communication. Consumers in the UAE increasingly expect companies to demonstrate real commitments to environmental and social causes, not just pay lip service. Authentic sustainability messaging builds trust and long-term loyalty, aligning with national visions such as UAE Vision 2021 and Saudi Vision 2030. PR and marketing professionals must therefore ensure that their storytelling reflects genuine values and measurable impact.The rise of immersive experiences, micro-influencers, and employee advocacy further highlights the human side of PR and marketing in an age of automation. While AI and digital platforms enhance reach and efficiency, the emotional connection brands create through relatable stories and community engagement remains irreplaceable.In my view, the future of PR and marketing in the UAE belongs to those who harness technology as a means to amplify authentic voices rather than replace them. Brands that combine innovation with cultural intelligence and purpose-driven communication will not only thrive but also shape the region?ÇÖs evolving narrative. This balance is the key to building lasting relationships in a market defined by diversity, rapid change, and discerning consumers.

A Shift That?ÇÖs Already HappeningArtificial Intelligence is no longer just a tech buzzword, it's quietly reshaping industries across the board. In PR and marketing its influence is becoming impossible to ignore. From automating routine tasks to predicting audience behaviour AI is rapidly becoming part of the toolkit for professionals who want to stay ahead.This isn?ÇÖt about distant possibilities. It?ÇÖs already happening and the pace is accelerating. In 2023 Salesforce reported that nearly 9 in 10 marketers around the world are using AI in some form. And according to McKinsey, AI could generate over $2.6 trillion in value from marketing and sales activities alone. These aren?ÇÖt experimental pilots anymore, there are real applications being used at scale. From Gut Instinct to Data-Driven ActionPR and marketing have traditionally been driven by experience, creativity, and intuition. Those strengths still matter but now they are being paired with tools that can sift through vast amounts of data in seconds.For instance AI tools can monitor thousands of news outlets and social platforms in real time, flagging brand mentions or sentiment shifts the moment they happen. That gives teams the chance to act faster, respond smarter, and even prevent potential crises before they snowball.In marketing AI is being used to tailor messages down to the individual. Based on someone?ÇÖs browsing history, purchase behaviour, or even time of day, AI can help brands serve up personalised ads, emails, or product recommendations automatically. A report by Epsilon found that 80% of consumers are more likely to buy when they receive personalised experiences. That level of targeting would have been unthinkable a decade ago. More Than Just AutomationAI doesn?ÇÖt just save time, it adds a new layer of intelligence. For PR professionals it can suggest which journalists are most likely to be interested in a story based on what they have covered in the past. For marketers it can predict which headlines will perform best or what time of day a campaign should launch to get maximum engagement.Content creation is also being reshaped. Tools like ChatGPT or Jasper can draft blogs, product descriptions, or email campaigns in seconds. While these drafts still need human editing they offer a great starting point especially when deadlines are tight.But even as these tools become more capable there?ÇÖs a clear limit to what AI can do on its own. Where AI Falls ShortAI is great at analysing patterns but it still struggles with nuance. It doesn?ÇÖt understand cultural context, emotional tone, or the unspoken cues that experienced communicators pick up on. It can?ÇÖt tell if a headline feels tone-deaf in a sensitive moment or if a press release sounds flat instead of inspiring.These are things only humans can fully grasp. Emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and timing still matter deeply in how people respond to a message. In a time where brand trust takes time to earn but can disappear overnight, human judgement becomes essential more than ever. New Tools, New ResponsibilitiesAs AI becomes more powerful it also raises new questions. One big concern is content authenticity. With AI generating everything from social posts to deepfake videos, how do we know what?ÇÖs real? And how do we make sure our audiences still trust us?Bias is another issue. AI systems are trained on existing data and if that data is flawed or incomplete the results can be too. If we are not careful AI can end up reinforcing stereotypes or leaving diverse voices out of the conversation entirely.There are also growing concerns about privacy. AI thrives on data but as governments tighten data protection laws like GDPR in Europe or the new data privacy law in India, PR and marketing professionals will need to be more transparent and careful about how they collect and use information. What Comes NextIt is clear that AI will continue to reshape how we work. In the near future we?ÇÖll see more real-time feedback on campaigns, more adaptive messaging based on audience behavior and tools that can generate creative options for us to choose from, not just analyse what we have already done.But even in this future the most valuable skills won?ÇÖt just be technical. They will be human. Knowing how to tell a compelling story, how to connect with real people and how to build trust with those skills will become even more important, not less.The TakeawaySo, is AI the future of PR and marketing? Yes, but not in isolation.AI will become a powerful part of our process. It will make us faster, smarter, and more efficient. But it won?ÇÖt replace the creative spark, the empathy, or the judgement that truly great communication needs.The future belongs to those who can work with AI without losing the human voice at the heart of it all.

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Atul Sharma, CEO, Ruder Finn India and Head of Middle East, shares his growth outlook for 2025, the evolving landscape of the PR industry, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.Emphasising the dynamic nature of the PR industry and the increasing need for PR firms to evolve in order to stay relevant, Sharma renarked, ?Ç£Growth doesn?ÇÖt come simply from following trends, it comes from truly understanding what our clients need today and where they are aiming to go in the future.?Ç¥ He stressed that the key to success lies in blending creativity with technology. ?Ç£A great story alone isn?ÇÖt sufficient anymore; it has to be backed by data, insights, and the flexibility to adapt quickly,?Ç¥ he asserted.Sharma also pointed out that there has been an increasing demand in areas traditionally handled in-house by clients, such as internal communications, crisis preparedness, and response planning. ?Ç£In the B2B space, brands are coming to us for assistance in building their brand identity and creating brand positioning manuals. They recognise that PR firms are uniquely equipped to craft these narratives, particularly through earned media,?Ç¥ he observed.With India?ÇÖs economy growing at an impressive rate, Sharma sees immense potential in areas such as financial communications, investor relations, and IPO communications. ?Ç£India is poised to become a high middle-income economy, and with that, we anticipate a surge in the need for expert storytelling to appeal to global investors and stakeholders,?Ç¥ he said. ?Ç£As many domestic companies and Indian arms of MNCs prepare to go public, we see a significant rise in demand for financial communications.?Ç¥Sharma also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping the PR industry. ?Ç£AI isn?ÇÖt just a buzzword, it is fundamentally altering the way we work and deliver value. At Ruder Finn, we?ÇÖve made substantial investments in AI to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and redefine pricing models to meet future demands,?Ç¥ he revealed.Furthermore, Sharma shared that the agency is actively helping clients adapt to the AI-driven landscape, citing insights from a Ruder Finn and Ragan survey on internal communications. ?Ç£The way forward is clear ?Çô AI will drive not only operational efficiencies, but also enhance the way we communicate with our audiences,?Ç¥ he added.Looking ahead at 2025, Sharma believes that the year will require a careful balance of optimism and caution. ?Ç£Geopolitical uncertainties and rising costs may cause businesses to be more cautious, but the growing recognition of PR as a business enabler opens up exciting possibilities,?Ç¥ he remarked. ?Ç£For those willing to innovate and adapt, the opportunities in 2025 are vast. We?ÇÖre entering a new phase of transformation, and those who embrace it will thrive.?Ç¥In conclusion, Sharma highlighted that while challenges lie ahead, the future of the PR industry remains full of promise for those prepared to evolve, harness the power of technology, and continuously innovate. ?Ç£The PR sector?ÇÖs role is only going to grow in importance, and for those who remain agile, the potential to succeed has never been greater,?Ç¥ he concluded.

As we bid adieu to 2024, and ring in 2025, there are endless possibilities and transformative opportunities in the world of public relations (PR). Over the past year, the PR sector has changed tremendously and emerged as a foundation of brand-building strategies. It is a known fact that storytelling needs a holistic approach to craft impactful narratives when it comes to brand management. Now, traditional methods no longer suffice in this competitive field. In 2025, when the PR sector is evolving, it is necessary to follow emerging trends and expand services. This article sheds light on crucial PR trends to look forward to in 2025 that will revolutionize the industry, and empower brands to achieve successful outcomes in the ever-changing world of communication. Public relations or (PR) is the art of shaping and managing how people perceive your brand. It is the job of the skilled PR to ensure that a comprehensive approach is used for building a positive reputation while effectively mitigating the impact of negative publicity. Knowing the current engaging trends in PR can help the PR strategist integrate well-planned strategies for successful brand positioning. Remember to create a robust plan for delivering a memorable experience that effectively communicates your brand's key messages and takes it to newer heights by repositioning the brand and enhancing its visibility and credibility in the marketplace. Vital PR trends to watch out for in 2025 Digital PR: With social media and performance marketing, leveraging digital media will be pivotal in identifying, targeting, and influencing audiences based on their social media activity and Google search interests. PR agencies will have to come out with unique ways to drive traffic, integrate high-performing keywords, and build backlinks while crafting narratives. The PR agency is expected to collaborate with digital marketing teams, paid performance marketers, and influencers when it comes to brand growth and reach. There is a growing demand for Journalists to create SEO-friendly content along with PR professionals. However, the content should be original and not plagiarized or AI-generated. If the content is copied then the story may not get the desired result or Google ranking. The attention should also be on keyword-centric content when it comes to leveling up the brand?ÇÖs digital presence. Paid partnerships with publications are also likely to grow, as media houses increasingly seek revenue streams. Now, digital Pr is also taking the world by storm.AI will be a game-changer in transforming the PR arena: Currently, Artificial intelligence is used in many fields to be able to enhance human capabilities instead of replacing them. AI will also play a pivotal role in the PR industry in 2025. AI uses machines that imitate human intelligence to perform tasks with precision, safety, and without any delay by minimizing the chances of error. AI helps with successful outcomes by helping to improve content ranking in the PR field with the help of SEO optimization, allowing efficient media tracking and understanding the audience response more proficiently. AI will also help with speech-to-text conversion when it comes to media interviews, podcast episodes, press conferences, and conference presentations for uplifting brand positioning. AI will help to translate audio and text files in multiple languages for easy story distribution in media.The focus will be on video and podcasts in 2025: Currently, apart from traditional media, a lot of attention is given to video and podcasts due to their rising popularity. Podcasts will also be a critical tool when it comes to managing PR crises. This can be done as follows- For example- The client can become a guest on the show or have the host read your press release to the audience. High-quality videos will be used to introduce the newest products, services, and even brand events. Not only that, but videos will also help to understand the client?ÇÖs side during the time of crisis. This can be a new path-breaking approach when it comes to crisis management.Social media platforms when it comes to reputation management and networking:  Social media remains one of the trusted platforms for brands to promote and raise awareness even in 2025. LinkedIn, and Twitter, unlike traditional PR methods, make sure to pave two-way communication between brands and their customers, the media, and other stakeholders. This is beneficial for the brand to solidify its position in the market. A large number of PR agencies are using social media platforms to build brand image, and reputation through videos, client testimonials, and postings regarding the brand features or services they offer. This will help with increased brand recognition and visibility and build trust among audiences. This way, the brand will reach a wider audience through social media. There should be a huge emphasis on digital PR, creating content that engages audiences and channelizes traffic to a company?ÇÖs website or social media pages for brand business.Influencer marketing: This is preferred by a large number of PR agencies for brand collaboration and promotion. It is a good idea to pick one relevant influencer whose audience is relevant to your business to be able to promote the brands. This also helps to build credibility and trust among the audience.Brand audit: The post-COVID era has brought significant changes to the marketing landscape, as brands are now allocating over 50% of their marketing budgets when it comes to digital marketing and key performance indicators (KPIs). PR agencies will have to now start conducting audits of brands' social media handles, websites, and reviews. The focus should be on organic media coverage to maximize media mileage. PR agencies should come up with innovative and creative ideas for events to bring desired media coverage.By hopping on these trends, brands will not only be able to increase their visibility but also build meaningful connections with their audiences and organically build a bond of trust with them when it comes to choosing a brand and services. PR agencies will have to put their best foot forward in 2025 to be able to evolve, experiment, and prioritize the values that matter most to consumers. Adopt consumer-friendly strategies for brand building and 2025 will be a revolutionary year for the brand as well as the PR arena.

PRCA Mena, the regional arm of the largest public relations and communications association in the world, has announced the agenda for its annual conference. Scheduled for November 14, 2024, at the Taj Hotel, Business Bay, Dubai, this year's event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and government specialists from across the region to explore the evolving landscape of public relations, communications and media.Key panel sessions include:The Future of Media: Innovation, Regulation, and Economic ImpactThe Future of PR: Navigating the Digital RevolutionPR & Influencers: Friends or Foe?CSR, ESG, Impact, Sustainability: Bogus Buzzwords or Changing Perceptions?What Women Want? Direct Insights from the industry?ÇÖs Leading LadiesSaudi?ÇÖs Secrets to Success: Creative Hype or a New Reality?Artificial Intelligence: Master or Slave?In addition to these sessions, the conference will feature ample networking opportunities over coffee, lunch and evening drinks, providing a social platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate.Conrad Egbert, Head of PRCA MENA, said: ?Ç£This conference is more than just an event?Çöit?ÇÖs a reflection of where the PR and communications industry stands today and where it?ÇÖs headed. With the rapid changes we?ÇÖre seeing, especially around technology and media, it?ÇÖs vital that we address these issues head-on. I?ÇÖm looking forward to having some candid conversations about what?ÇÖs working, what isn?ÇÖt, and where we go from here.?Ç¥Early bird tickets are available until September 20, 2024, with special offers for PRCA members.Representing more than 35,000 PR professionals in 82 countries worldwide, PRCA is a global advocate for excellence in public relations. The PRCA?ÇÖs teams across Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific work with industry professionals around the world to co-ordinate operations across six continents.

Adgully?ÇÖs IMAGEXX Summit and Awards 2024, the premier PR industry event, took place on July 18, 2024, at the Holiday Inn, Aerocity, Gurgaon. This prestigious event brought together industry leaders, professionals, and innovators to celebrate excellence in public relations and communication.The event saw an interesting panel discussion on ?ÇÿThe Future of Public Relations in the Age of AI?ÇÖ, chaired by Bhaskar Majumdar, Co-Originator, CommsAdda. The esteemed panelists included:Dr Navneet Anand, Founder & Director, GreyMatters Communications & ConsultingDr Samir Kapur, Director, AdfactorsManu Kumar, Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Hero Electric VehiclesSanjeev Handa, SVP & Head of PR & Communications, Maruti SuzukiVandana Sandhir, Chief Client Strategy Officer, BursonIndiaBhaskar Majumdar started the session by asking a pertinent question, ?Ç£Do I lose my job because of AI??Ç¥ Replying to this question, Vandana Sandhir said, ?Ç£I don?ÇÖt think any of us will lose our jobs if we are smart about how we leverage AI. I think AI has been around for the longest, and we are all bored of talking about AI as a nebulous concept. It is well underway and there are some fantastic case studies of applications, where we are drawing huge value as communications professionals, and public relations professionals. For me, the most telling things are the stories that we see around us. I think it is hands down very clear that AI is very much an integral part, and we at Burson have pivoted ourselves to be a purpose-built agency to create value for our clients through reputation management. We are using a suite of services to be able to identify and listen better through AI to be able to understand the impact of messages, the risks they carry, the amplifications, again very smartly done to have micro experiences, to be able to understand our audiences better, and to have a real measurable impact in what we do as a professional, so that there are no grey areas which historically has been the bane for us as public relations professionals. Thanks to AI and technology our creativity knows no bounds, we are no longer limited by traditional content writing, so I think there are exciting times ahead.?Ç¥Majumdar added here, ?Ç£I completely agree with the creativity part, especially for someone like me who comes from the Orkut age, technology is a big challenge for me, but I?ÇÖm trying to understand podcasts, Twitter chat, and everything. Just a few days back, I created a PowerPoint presentation through AI.?Ç¥Replying to a question on what AI exactly means for communication & marketing, Sanjeev Handa said, ?Ç£What we need to understand as communicators is that the ?ÇÿI?ÇÖ in AI is the intelligence which is nothing but what makes us human. I think that?ÇÖs the quality that humans have, and if that is the ability, then AI is just an extension of that quality, which means we use the quality to make extensions in how we work, and what we do better. Similarly in communications, AI will always be the harbinger of getting into newer ways of doing things, newer ways of measuring things, and newer ways of creating things. I think taking the mundane out of regular work so that people focus on what we are strong at ?Çô relationships, creativity, and doing the new. I think that is the way forward.?Ç¥Majumdar noted, ?Ç£So, the first draft of the press release can be AI and then it has to be checked out by a professional to make it more suitable.?Ç¥Sanjeev Handa added here, ?Ç£I would say the first brief to AI has to be human-led; it?ÇÖs like value in, value out and GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out). So, the first thing has to be the human touch, anything you want them to do is subservient. If you want them to do something, you have to coach them to do it.?Ç¥Speaking on how Hero Electric Vehicles is utilizing AI for multiple campaigns, Manu Kumar said, ?Ç£You can automate the processes, but you cannot automate authenticity. So, the relationship between AI and humans has to be symbiotic. I think there is a debate on whether we will have our jobs or not. I don?ÇÖt think that is going to happen, what will happen is that if someone does not want to take up new technology that has come up, then obviously they are out, that happened when computers came in many years ago. At that time, the debate was similar. AI and technology can help and it is already doing a lot of things ?Çô not only mundane stuff, but very important data that it can pull out.?Ç¥Kumar added, ?Ç£One of the issues in communication is how to measure, how to report, and what are the sentiments that are going around. These are the mundane stuff, some platforms were doing it, but with AI what is happening is that it has become a norm. You cannot say that I can?ÇÖt do that or it is very expensive, etc. Ultimately, the person who is managing the relationship and others needs to understand how to read the data. What is also happening is that the role of a PR person or communicator is changing, and you have to upskill yourself. You have to start reading the data because it can give you great insights. And AI can hunt that data which is across platforms. Marketers and communicators can take great help from AI or any other technology and analyze it ?Çô analyze the sentiments, analyze if there is a crisis growing, and what the competition is doing, etc.?Ç¥On whether AI can substitute the media relations skills that PR professionals have, Navneet Anand replied, ?Ç£As communications professionals, it is something to raise concerns all across the spectrum. There was a study done by Oxford University which ranked the jobs that are likely to be affected by AI, where out of the 702 jobs listed, PR was listed at 634, quite down the order. We are safe for now. We have grown up doing human relations, which I think, is something that AI can never replace. And there are many other facets of public relations ?Çô we do a lot of public policy campaigns at Grey Matters Communications. Now there is nuanced, specific research that needs to be done. I have attempted a couple of times to get ChatGPT to respond to my queries about what the textile policy is going to be or what the policy is like from the 1990s and 2000 and so forth. It has failed me miserably, and that is where human intervention is necessary. I think you would always want to go back to the human side, the research side, and Google will remain relevant.?Ç¥Dr Samir Kapur said, ?Ç£There will be certain jobs that will be eroded by AI. IT jobs are getting eroded due to the advent of AI. If it?ÇÖs happening in IT, it?ÇÖs just a matter of time before it will come in PR. What we do not realize is that AI has been there, the only part is its version 3 and version 4 that has disrupted the entire market. It?ÇÖs a matter of time before you look at videos and other images that AI can listen to, read, and all of that. The routine work can, of course, be pre-empted, and the entire aspect can be put onto AI. But the human part is something that has to be worked on, which will have human intervention. For instance, you are a journalist, through AI I will get to know what kind of stories you have been writing, and what your stance is on certain issues. And unlike the current way of doing media relations, which is just issue a press release and that?ÇÖs it, people will understand that this journalist is covering a particular sector, AI will tell who is the journalist who is doing that and it will equip you better. It is not going to take your job, but people who know AI will take your job.?Ç¥These are edited excerpts. For the complete panel discussion, please watch below:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbdDQAcX6wk

Amid the rapid transition to Digital and the emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, Machine Language, human touch continues to retain a great degree of meaningful connections and bring in authenticity in brand communications and in Public Relations. Authenticity in PR and marketing is now vital for creating lasting brand value and differentiation. Carefully crafted messages are no longer sufficient; openness and genuine engagement are imperative.Also read:Leveraging Authenticity: Strategies for positive change & lasting stakeholder connectionsHow PR is revisiting storytelling narratives to create authenticity for new age consumersThe Art of Authenticity in Public Relations: Honesty Over False CommitmentsJyotsna Dash Nanda, AVP - Corporate Communication, DS Group, pointed out, ?Ç£The 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer study revealed a significant shift in consumer behaviour, with 63% basing purchasing decisions on a brand?ÇÖs values alignment. This necessitates a move from controlled messaging to transparent and authentic PR strategies.?Ç¥She further said, ?Ç£Today?ÇÖs informed consumers can easily detect inauthenticity, and inconsistencies between brand messaging and actions (?Ç£say-do gap?Ç¥) erode trust and damage reputations. Trust crumbles when a brand?ÇÖs actions contradict its advertised values. Conversely, authenticity strengthens the bond between the brand and the consumer. PR professionals need to be well-positioned to champion authenticity by prioritizing open communication and storytelling that showcases real experiences and humanizes the brand. Building trust-based relationships with journalists ensures accurate media portrayals while selecting brand influencers whose values resonate strengthens authenticity for both parties. As consumer demand for authenticity grows, PR professionals who prioritize genuine communication will be best equipped to navigate the evolving media landscape and build lasting public relationships.?Ç¥According to Priya Patnakar, Head of Communications at PhonePe, ?Ç£Authenticity in PR matters because our audience today is bombarded with multiple messages across channels from various brands. Every brand is trying to communicate with its customers constantly and sell customers their story. In this ?ÇÿAttention economy?ÇÖ, it is important that your message should be relatable to the customer and the communication should be bi-directional ?Çô involve the customer in the story so that it does not seem like the brand is preaching to the customer.?Ç¥?Ç£The perception of authenticity has evolved as today?ÇÖs customers have a lot more access to a brand given how connected the world has become. They interact with the brand on digital platforms, look at social media on the brand, and also have access to both formal and informal channels which help them form their perception of the brand. Their worldview is no longer limited to the ?Çÿofficial PR?ÇÖ narrative which the brand chooses to share with them. Given this, it is even more important for brands to clearly define and live their brand values. Being authentic is no longer a ?Çÿnice to have?ÇÖ, but is imperative to build a meaningful and long-lasting relationship with customers.?Ç¥ Mou Chakravorty, Associate Director of Marketing Communications at Deloitte India, highlighted the increasingly blurred lines between marketing, public relations (PR), and communications. She emphasized the rapidly changing consumer behaviors driven by multiple factors, particularly the dominance of technology and digital consumption."We are living in a world where consumer behaviors are constantly changing due to multiple factors," Chakravorty noted. "One of the biggest differences is the way technology and digital consumption have dominated our world, where we live, transact, and plan through highly tech-enabled digital content consumption patterns that keep us in an always-on mode."This shift necessitates content generation across various channels, including print, online, broadcast, and social media. However, the race to meet demands or rank higher often results in repeated, plagiarized, and fake content flooding these channels. With the advent of tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT, content generation has become remarkably accessible."Thanks to OpenAI-led ChatGPT, content generation is now child's play for everyone," Chakravorty observed. "However, unique human perspectives cannot be machine-generated. The power of authentic storytelling requires human creativity to form narratives that resonate with audiences and add value."Authentic narratives possess the power to effect change, build trust, and establish credibility and thought leadership among stakeholders, thus contributing to comprehensive brand positioning. Chakravorty underscored that today's public relations fundamentally values authenticity."Public relations today values ?Çÿbeing authentic?ÇÖ at its core because it not only helps organizations effectively communicate their messages but also fosters meaningful relationships with their audiences, leading to long-term success and positive brand perception," she added.Geetu Batra, PR & Communications Lead, Cheil India, stressed on the crucial role of authenticity in today?ÇÖs communication landscape, especially amidst the proliferation of AI-generated content. She emphasised that authentic content resonates with audiences, builds trust, and humanizes brands. Batra outlined the playbook for authentic communication: transparent storytelling, alignment of values with actions, and openness to feedback. ?Ç£Deviating from authenticity risks damaging a brand?ÇÖs reputation,?Ç¥ she warned.Leveraging AuthenticityAuthenticity ?Çô being true to your values and acting consistently ?Çô has become a powerful tool for businesses to drive positive change and build lasting connections.Jyotsna Dash Nanda listed some of the narratives that have worked effectively:Align Values with Actions:Example: ITC?ÇÖs Social Forestry Initiative: ITC, a leading Indian conglomerate, embarked on a social forestry program decades ago. This initiative not only provided raw materials for their business but also empowered local communities and fostered environmental sustainability. This alignment of business goals with social impact exemplifies authenticity.Transparency in Communication:Example: Sebamed India?ÇÖs Ingredient Disclosure: In a market saturated with unproven claims, Sebamed India took a bold step by disclosing the exact science behind their products?ÇÖ ingredients. This transparency built trust with consumers and positioned them as a brand focused on genuine skincare solutions. (Sebamed is a German brand known for its medicinal skin care products, particularly those formulated with a pH of 5.5 to match healthy skin's balance. Founded by a dermatologist in 1957, Sebamed offers a variety of gentle and effective options for all skin types.)Owning Up to Mistakes:Example: When a 2019 video exposed Domino?ÇÖs India?ÇÖs hygiene issues, they went beyond apologies. Their ?Ç£Food Safety Screw Up?Ç¥ campaign openly acknowledged the mistakes, implemented stricter protocols with staff training and audits, and offered discounts to regain trust. This transparency and commitment to improvement showcased authentic ownership that helped them weather the crisis.Empowering Stakeholders:Example: Hindustan Unilever Limited?ÇÖs Project Shakti: Hindustan Unilever Limited?ÇÖs (HUL) Project Shakti empowers rural women as micro-entrepreneurs to sell their products. This initiative not only expands their reach but also creates economic opportunities at the grassroots level.Long-Term Commitment:Example: The Akshaya Patra Foundation?ÇÖs Mid-Day Meal Scheme: The Akshaya Patra Foundation, a not-for-profit run by ISKCON, provides nutritious mid-day meals to millions of children across India. Their consistent dedication to this cause for over 20 years showcases a deep commitment to social impact.Nanda?ÇÖs advice was to walk the talk ?Ç£so that you espouse your brand values. Don?ÇÖt let your brand vision and purpose be a statement which you display at strategic points, while not living them. Your leaders and brand custodians should be walking and talking examples of what the brand stands for. I believe brands seem most authentic when they tell their own story. Therefore, it is important to build strong inhouse channels which can take your story to your audience. For example, communicate about how you are making your customer?ÇÖs lives better and easier; highlight the causes that your brand supports; the values that it lives by; and also share stories on how your employees are an embodiment of those values. Authenticity is about taking action and being consistent in communicating them. It is finally a continuous journey which communications teams need to work towards.?Ç¥

Authored by Jyotsna Dash Nanda, AVP, Corporate Communications, DS GroupThe ever-shrinking window for effective crisis response demands a paradigm shift in communication strategies. Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing crisis management with its generative power. Throughout all phases of a crisis, from proactively assessing risks to expediting response and optimizing recovery, AI offers data-driven solutions that can be harnessed for significant improvement.The exploration of AI's application in crisis communication is not only opportune but essential, particularly in an age characterized by increasingly compressed response windows during crises. In the age of information overload, vast amounts of data are readily available. Big data encompasses information in various formats, from structured databases to social media posts and sensor readings. This data requires advanced tools for processing and analysis. Crisis communication professionals can leverage AI to analyse the data to gain a comprehensive understanding of a developing crisis in real time. By analyzing social media feeds, news reports, and sensor networks, they can pinpoint the affected areas and demographics, allowing for targeted communication strategies. Additionally, AI allows for monitoring public sentiment through social media analysis. This reveals anxieties and concerns, enabling tailored messaging and swift action against misinformation. Predictive analytics, a powerful AI application, can also analyze historical data to identify potential crises before they erupt. This empowers organizations and corporate communicators to take proactive measures, mitigating potential damage and fostering preparedness.Furthermore, AI-powered audience segmentation allows for targeted communication strategies. By analyzing data on demographics and past interactions, organizations can tailor messages to resonate directly with those most affected. This ensures crucial information reaches the right people at the right time.AI offers a robust suite of functionalities that enhance crisis communication on multiple fronts. Chatbots powered by AI can provide 24/7 information and support to affected individuals, alleviating pressure on call centers. Additionally, AI can automate the generation of targeted messages for various platforms, ensuring consistent and timely communication across all channels.Social media analysis is another area where AI shines. By analyzing public sentiment, AI can reveal anxieties and concerns, enabling organizations to tailor messaging and swiftly counter misinformation. This fosters trust and transparency, critical elements in crisis communication.Beyond the Data, the Human Element is very important. While AI offers significant advantages, it's crucial to acknowledge the unique role of human expertise. AI may struggle to grasp the emotional nuances of a crisis. Human communicators can tailor messages with empathy and understanding, a crucial element in building trust with the public. Crises often demand complex decisions that require human judgment. AI can provide valuable data-driven insights, but ultimately, humans must make the final call. Transparency and accountability are paramount throughout the process. Organizations must be upfront about their use of AI and build trust with the public.Generative AI allows us to move beyond traditional methods and develop data-driven communication strategies. Predictive analytics, a powerful AI application, can analyze historical data and identify potential crisis situations before they erupt. This empowers organizations to take proactive measures, mitigating potential damage and fostering preparedness. Furthermore, AI-powered audience segmentation helps tailor communication to specific demographics, ensuring messages resonate directly with those most affected.Discussions around AI in crisis communication highlight both its potential and the challenges it presents. Indian case studies, showcasing real-world applications, are scarce, but ongoing research is bridging this gap. AI in crisis communication extends beyond its immediate applications. We must consider its broader societal impact. Reskilling and upskilling initiatives are crucial to prepare the workforce for the changing landscape of AI automation. Additionally, the need for training spokespersons in using AI tools like Perplexity and Yoddle is emphasized. These tools can assist with crafting compelling narratives and managing communication flow during a crisis.Some of the other considerations include the challenges of data analysis, inherent data bias, security concerns, limitations in emotional intelligence, and transparency issues. Additionally, security concerns surrounding data privacy and misuse necessitate robust data protection regulations. Additionally, AI's limitations in emotional intelligence must be acknowledged. While AI excels at data analysis, it cannot replicate human empathy. Effective crisis communication requires a human touch to convey sincerity and build trust.By combining human expertise with AI's rapid analysis capabilities, organizations and communication professionals can significantly accelerate critical decision-making during a crisis. AI presents a transformative opportunity for crisis communication. By harnessing its power to generate data-driven strategies and fostering responsible development, organizations can navigate crises with greater agility and effectiveness. By acknowledging both the potential and the challenges, we can ensure AI becomes a force for good, building trust and fostering resilience in a rapidly changing world.

While technology is booming, storytelling remains an enduring superpower in the realm of public relations (PR). A staggering 88% of PR professionals consider it the cornerstone of successful campaigns, as it enables brands to forge emotional connections with their audience and is the magic ingredient that imbues promotional messages with meaning and resonance. This insight comes from the most recent report, Emerging Dynamics in Public Relations, by W7Worldwide, a marketing consultancy based in Saudi Arabia.PR professionals should leverage digital technology and cultivate robust connections with their audiences. Embracing this proactive strategy is essential for navigating the ongoing transformation of the industry, characterized by the digital age, an intricate media environment, and diverse consumer behaviors. Relying mostly on media outreach and crisis management has become pointless. Today's PR landscape requires fostering two-way communication, organic outreach, and evolving audience engagement. Recognizing this shift, the report highlights the significant changes in PR strategies brought about by the digital revolution. The emphasis has moved from building general connections with media to delivering targeted, audience-specific content. Modern digital PR now encompasses a broader spectrum, including influencer relations, social media management, branding, and strategic communications.The power of AIThe report further explores the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in PR. AI integration is revolutionizing the industry, opening up new frontiers for creativity and efficiency. PR professionals are keenly aware of AI's potential, with a recent survey revealing that 20% saw it as a major trend redefining the industry.W7Worldwide report highlights the necessity of extensive learning and adaptation to successfully navigate this ever-evolving landscape. PR professionals must embrace new tools and technologies, develop the skills to wield them responsibly, stay informed about emerging trends, and commit to lifelong learning. They must also recognize the power of social media and influencers as key players in crafting impactful PR campaignsReaching the Audience Reaching target audiences in a congested digital landscape is a major challenge for public relations professionals. They need to differentiate themselves from rivals by offering promotions that no one else is offering.Storytelling with an emphasis on originality, relevance, and timeliness; using data and visions to spot opportunities and threats; and measuring the efficacy of PR campaigns were among the methods outlined in the report as ways to get over this roadblock.There had never been a media relations crisis like the COVID-19 epidemic. The report delves into the ways PR professionals rose to the challenge, using cutting-edge tactics like social media, video calls, and podcasts to forge new communication channels with journalists. These alternate approaches proved invaluable in maintaining effective communication amid social separation and lockdowns.Demonstrating ROIWith increased scrutiny on PR budgets, proving the tangible value of campaigns is crucial. The report underscores the importance of providing clear, measurable results that showcase the contribution of PR to business success and goal achievement. By quantifying the impact of PR efforts, professionals can justify budgets and secure continued investment.Sustainability StorytellingMoving ahead, the report stresses the importance of sustainability storytelling, recommending that public relations experts use engaging stories and statistics to highlight a company's eco-friendly endeavors and long-term sustainability objectives. Highlighting the impact of these efforts enhances brand recognition and resonates with eco-conscious audiences. Additionally, the report emphasizes the crucial role of data analysis in optimizing content, targeting audiences, measuring performance, and boosting online presence through SEO and social media strategies.Promising LandscapeThe research concludes with expressing optimism about the future of Saudi Arabia's PR industry. With an anticipated 7.87% growth rate from 2023 to 2028, reaching a projected market size of $2.03 billion by 2028, the digital media offers promising opportunities for the future of the industry. The key lies in striking a balance between traditional and digital approaches, enabling PR professionals in Saudi Arabia to develop effective and impactful strategies.