I have just returned from attending the World Public Relations Conference & Festival in London. It was hosted by the U.K.’s public relations professional group, the CIPR, and they did a splendid job. More than 250 people from 34 nations attended, and it was refreshing to hear points of view from so many diverse places.

Working in North America, we forget how limited our perspective can be on many issues. All PR people are also “captives of context” and we approach issues based on assumptions and learnings that start the day we are born.

It was impressive, for example, to hear from Graeme Sterne, a New Zealand professional about his experience communicating with the Maori population. He said the best start is to go to their home and listen. He also used guideline words like community, reciprocity, respect and humility.

Another very good speaker was Lou Capozzi, a veteran U.S. public relations industry leader. He talked about a business coalition working to restore America’s reputation in the world. He said everyone should share this objective and I agree it makes sense. A blue ribbon panel of senior leaders from U.S. agencies and corporations are guiding this project. Their activities range from exchange programs with Arab business students to programs to teach hospitality to U.S. customs agents. He admitted they were mostly focused in work inside the U.S.A.

Several delegates asked him about involving other nationals from friendly nations such as the UK, Australia or Canada as advisors on this project. He declined. Personally, I would give the job to the New Zealanders and see what ideas they can offer.

This blog is a new offering by Environics Communications. We look forward to commenting on communications matters of all types and hope for interesting discussion and comments. Unlike some other blogs connected to our industry, we don’t plan to blog only about blogging. We also don’t plan to lecture anyone. We have set it up so people from our firm and other places can communicate and exchange ideas without the scent of cliques or condescension – just what social media sites should do. Please enjoy!