Which of the following is a common tool used in public relations?

Press releases are a fundamental tool in public relations because they serve as a primary means of communicating news or information about an organization to the media and the public. They are typically written in a standardized format and are distributed to journalists, editors, and other media outlets to generate coverage.

The significance of press releases lies in their ability to convey key messages and announce events, product launches, or other noteworthy developments in a concise and professional manner. They play a crucial role in shaping public perception and can help build relationships between organizations and their target audiences. By providing journalists with the information they need to report accurately, press releases facilitate media engagement and enhance the visibility of an organization or campaign.

In contrast, while direct mail campaigns, television advertisements, and billboards can be effective tools for marketing and advertising, they do not specifically fall under the core functions of public relations, which focuses on managing communication and fostering relationships between an organization and its stakeholders.