Crossing Cultures: PR Edition
Published on April 13, 2022, at 8:15 p.m.
by Sophie Gregor.
The world has become more connected than ever due to the prominent usage of social media and the internet. Platforms such as Instagram, Twitter and Facebook allow for users to post updates, share posts and talk online. It has become incredibly easy to connect with friends across the world and to stay up to date with world news.
In the early 2000s, paid phone calls, written letters and occasional email messages were the primary forms of communication. While it was more difficult to keep in touch and took longer to receive responses, people were typically surrounded by their close bubble of friends and connections who were easily accessible. Social media and the internet have allowed for us to remain in touch constantly with people from all over who may not live close by. We can expand our bubbles without limitations.
The implications of the online world continue to expand as new tools such as the metaverse are introduced. The metaverse will allow for users to create their own characters and experience the world right from their couches. Brands such as Nike, Disney, Gucci and Coca-Cola are already involved in this virtual world to promote their products. Users can learn more about these products and learn about different cultures.
Cultural diversity includes a variety of factors such as ethnicity, religion, language, economic status, race and sexuality. Culture and background are unique to each individual. Cultural diversity is now being taught and emphasized in school curricula. According to GoGuardian, “Cultural diversity in the classroom involves celebrating those differences and creating a culture of inclusion and acceptance among students and the greater school community.”
Being submerged in and surrounded by different cultures is vital for increasing diversity within personal connections as well as in the public relations world. PR used to be more limited but is now available internationally. International PR has allowed for companies around the world to be interconnected and share new insights and ideas. It is important to have different demographics within a group. Crossing cultures is something that is growing in importance and plays a large role in PR.
By understanding and accepting cultural diversity, we reap multiple benefits in the workforce, such as better understandings, stronger communications and more effective interactions. These are all benefits that companies and brands should strive for and continue to improve. Educating students at a young age will make them more confident employees in the future.
