The article reveals the specifics of public relations'(PR) effectiveness evaluation while emphasizing its complex nature. Elements of PR effectiveness evaluation complex and their expediency are analyzed. After identifying the lack of clear corpus of the criteria for PR effectiveness evaluation, a research was carried out on the PR effectiveness evaluation in Lithuanian business companies. Quantitative and qualitative researches expanded the cognizance of PR effectiveness evaluation and made it more accurate. Based on the results of the researches, clear and adaptable corpus of evaluation criteria was suggested that ensures the adequacy of projected PR effectiveness evaluation solutions to the situation in question. Through the study of direct experience, the list of criteria for all stages of PR effectiveness evaluation was expanded and an additional stage of interim evaluation was identified. Evaluation criteria were grouped in line with the consistency of PR effectiveness evaluation process, defined by input, implementation, interim evaluation and impact evaluation stages. Results of the researches are presented following the same order of sequence. Criteria for the evaluation of PR objectives are suggested based on hierarchical levels of objectives, while distinguishing between evaluation criteria for tasks, target audiences and action plan. In PR implementation stage, the following criteria are presented: simplicity, informativeness, veracity, ethicality and novelty of communication message, purpose-centrality of information provided, attractiveness of the media and attractiveness of message presentation. When discussing the PR impact, criteria for the evaluation of different PR results-outputs, outtakes and outcomes-are presented. Moreover, the importance of relationship quality criterion was emphasized, allowing envisaging the implicit links between the PR decisions and the effectiveness of company's operations.

The various practices of different countries show that, in order to achieve trade unions' goals, working relationships with the media are very important, especially in terms of influencing public (stakeholder) opinion, as well as instilling confidence in trade unions. This paper presents some examples and empirical research results that prove the significance of such relationships. The situation in Lithuania is analyzed based on qualitative research results. The results reveal that Lithuanian trade unions do not have effective tools at their disposal for the promotion of their activity. Moreover, their notion of their relationships with the media is limited to a narrow understanding such as -the article or broadcast in media‖. Due to this and other reasons, the promotion of employers' concessions is weak. Different situations can be noticed by analyzing the independent trade unions which use other practices and systems.

No abstract

No abstract