Jonesrac’s Weblog

            I wasn’t aware of the huge impact a that one company closing could have on the entire city until our class discussion last week. Mercy Hospital’s closure effected those living in Detroit in a variety of ways. The obvious reason is that the city lost a hospital that was very much needed. People working at the hospital and living in the city were laid off . Then there were more members of community who weren’t able to pay taxes and those taxes are used to better the city.

          Mercy Hospital was wise with being open and honest with the public about their reasons for closing.   In my other public relations classes we have been told that we need to understand the public’s need in order to reach them. We have talked about launching a product and reaching the media but this issue with Mercy Hospital is a very sensitive subject and reaching people who’s lives are disrupted that drastically takes the role of  P.R professional to a whole other level.

    Marketing and P.R tend to get grouped together but I believe this case is a good example of how they differ. The image of the hospital as well as the emotinal well being of the public fell on the sholders of the P.R department… does not seem very likely in marketing.

Blogging is becoming an important tool in reaching target audiences. Presently it seems that blogging is viewed as a way of expressing personal ideas or opinions. The content of blogs are valued by their readers because the writers have no ulterior motives. As more and more corporations begin to use blogs as a way of enhancing their image or promoting products the uniqueness will wear off. Although, by the time that happens there will be most likely be another new outlet for advertising.