Arthur W. Page

Definition

Arthur W. Page was a pioneering public relations executive who is widely recognized for establishing the principles of corporate communication and public relations management in the early to mid-20th century. His work laid the foundation for modern public relations practices by emphasizing transparency, honesty, and the importance of engaging with stakeholders. Page's philosophy highlighted that public relations should be an integral part of a company's operations rather than merely a promotional tool.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arthur W. Page was the first public relations executive for a major corporation, serving as vice president for AT&T from 1927 to 1947.
2. He developed the 'Page Principles,' which include concepts like telling the truth, proving it with action, and listening to stakeholders.
3. Page emphasized that good public relations is built on ethical practices and should be rooted in a company's values and mission.
4. He believed in the importance of two-way communication, advocating for organizations to listen to public concerns and respond appropriately.
5. Page's legacy continues today as his principles are still taught in public relations courses and practiced by professionals worldwide.

Review Questions

• How did Arthur W. Page's principles change the approach to public relations in organizations?
  • Arthur W. Page's principles shifted public relations from being seen as just a promotional tool to being recognized as a vital part of organizational strategy. By emphasizing honesty, transparency, and stakeholder engagement, he encouraged companies to build trust with their audiences through ethical communication. This foundational shift helped establish public relations as a profession focused on fostering relationships rather than just disseminating information.
• Evaluate the impact of Page's emphasis on stakeholder engagement in modern corporate communication strategies.
  • Page's emphasis on stakeholder engagement has profoundly influenced modern corporate communication strategies by prioritizing dialogue over monologue. Organizations today recognize that actively listening to stakeholders—such as customers, employees, and the community—leads to better decision-making and reputation management. This approach fosters trust and loyalty, demonstrating that companies value their audience's opinions and concerns.
• Critically analyze how Arthur W. Page's legacy continues to shape ethical standards in public relations today.
  • Arthur W. Page's legacy endures in contemporary public relations through the continued emphasis on ethics and accountability in communication practices. His principles serve as a benchmark for professionals aiming to navigate complex issues in today's media landscape, reinforcing the need for truthfulness and responsible messaging. As organizations face increasing scrutiny, Page's insistence on integrity remains crucial for maintaining credibility and building sustainable relationships with stakeholders.

Related terms

Public Relations: The strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics.

Stakeholder Engagement: The process of involving individuals or groups who are affected by or can affect a company's operations and decisions.

Corporate Communication: The way an organization communicates with its internal and external stakeholders, including media, employees, customers, and the public.