What best describes public relations?

Public relations (PR) is best described as strategic communication aimed at building and maintaining relationships between an organization and its various stakeholders, including the public, employees, customers, and the media. The core focus of PR is on creating understanding and goodwill, which can enhance the organization's reputation and foster a positive public image. This involves crafting key messages, engaging with the community, and responding to public concerns effectively.

In contrast, the management of promotional campaigns primarily focuses on marketing efforts intended to drive sales and increase visibility for products or services, while the process of selling products directly emphasizes transactional activities rather than relationship building. A financial management strategy deals specifically with the allocation and management of funds within an organization, which does not encompass the broader communication goals of public relations. Thus, the emphasis on strategic communication in option B captures the essence of public relations accurately.