The Challenge of Communicators

One way to identify those who communication professionally is that they walk around with a bulls-eye implanted on their foreheads. Obviously, that is literally not the case but the fact they are easy targets for criticism and second-guessing is certainly real. Because most, if not all, efforts to connect with others have some margin of error, there is always room for improvement: a message might not be understandable to some; it may not be as appealing as other communiques; people may not like the way it was presented; or the timing of it might be off. There are lots of reasons not all communication efforts succeed and not shortage of critics around to point out the whys and wherefores of their missing the mark.


Those in journalism, for example, are often blasted because their reporting is deemed to be biased, superficial, shallow, and focused on matters of triviality. Folks in public relations are criticized because their efforts are viewed as being misleading, not in the public interest, and sugar-coated. In all fairness, this is not to say these criticisms are not without merit. Those working in the world of journalism and public relations represent the two biggest engines of communication in our world. As a result, they need to be watched closely and held accountable for the so-called work they do. After all, reporters and public relations practitioners directly and indirectly touch the lives of millions of people throughout our planet.


Having said that, however, it is important to remember that what these men and women do is extremely valuable and rarely, if ever, without challenge. Those they report on and/or represent are not always cooperative. These folks want to control what is written and/or said about them. Consequently, many are not particularly accessible or forthcoming in their interactions with professional communicators. The result is producing and distributing accurate and unfiltered information is a constant challenge. Yes, journalists and those in public relations should be watched closely and held to high standards. At the same time, they deserve to be appreciated for at least trying to ensure our society remains open and free.