SERVICES
Public affairs
‘Public affairs’ is a term generally used to describe a company’s relationship with external stakeholders and as an industry, has evolved over the last 20 years, from being optional to being an operational necessity. Stakeholders could range from politicians to public servants, environmental pressure groups, local communities, trade associations, think tanks, business groups, charities and unions. While public affairs is often confused with lobbying, the latter is in fact only one aspect. Importantly, PR activities should never put a strain on public affairs relationships.
We have been extensively involved over the years with the financial, industrial and political sectors. Corporate Image has completed successful bids or tenders in key industries including those in contentious industries.
We have also conducted successful JSE listings, communications with organised labour, investment issues, major corporate image revamps, and employee programmes ranging from transformation to share schemes.
We aim to help influence public policy, build and maintain a strong reputation and find common ground with stakeholders. Corporate Image helps companies engage stakeholders to explain organisational policies and views on public policy issues, assisting policy makers and legislators in amending or introducing better policy and law. Additionally, Corporate Image assists in providing statistical and empirical information, and lobby on issues which could impact a client’s ability to operate successfully.