Arthur W. Page

Definition

Arthur W. Page was a pioneering figure in public relations, known for establishing the principles of ethical communication and advocacy for corporate transparency. His approach emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive relationship between organizations and their stakeholders, making him a foundational figure in the development of public relations as a profession.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arthur W. Page was the first to hold the title of Vice President of Public Relations at AT&T, where he played a crucial role in shaping the company's public image.
2. He is credited with the development of Page's Seven Principles of Public Relations, which focus on honesty, integrity, and proactive communication.
3. Page believed that the public relations function should be integrated into the upper management of organizations to ensure that ethical communication aligns with business strategies.
4. His advocacy for corporate transparency set a precedent for modern public relations practices, encouraging companies to engage openly with their stakeholders.
5. Page's influence extended beyond AT&T; he became a mentor to many public relations professionals and contributed significantly to the establishment of public relations as a recognized field.

Review Questions

• How did Arthur W. Page’s approach to public relations differ from earlier models?
  • Arthur W. Page’s approach introduced a focus on ethical communication and transparency, contrasting with earlier models that often prioritized persuasion without regard for stakeholder trust. He believed that organizations should actively engage with their audiences and maintain honesty in their communications, laying the groundwork for modern public relations practices that value two-way communication over one-sided messaging.
• Discuss the implications of Page's Seven Principles of Public Relations on contemporary ethical decision-making in organizations.
  • Page's Seven Principles emphasize integrity, transparency, and ethical engagement, which are crucial for contemporary organizations facing scrutiny from the public. These principles guide professionals in making ethical decisions that promote trust and accountability, essential in an era where stakeholders demand more from corporations regarding social responsibility and honest communication. The principles encourage organizations to prioritize long-term relationships over short-term gains, fostering sustainable practices.
• Evaluate how Arthur W. Page’s contributions to public relations can be applied to modern challenges faced by organizations in crisis situations.
  • Arthur W. Page’s emphasis on transparency and ethical communication is vital for organizations navigating crises today. His approach suggests that being upfront about issues and engaging openly with stakeholders can help mitigate damage to reputations during challenging times. By applying Page's principles, organizations can build credibility and trust, which are essential when addressing crises that require clear communication and accountability to maintain public confidence.

Related terms

Public Relations:

The practice of managing communication between an organization and its publics to build a positive reputation and foster mutual understanding.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

A business model in which companies integrate social and environmental concerns into their operations and interactions with stakeholders.

Two-Way Symmetrical Communication: A communication model that emphasizes balanced and reciprocal dialogue between organizations and their audiences, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration.