When I started Abel Fitness Training (www.abelfitness.com) to help companies improve the fitness of their workforces, everyone who knows me asked the same question. They wanted to know if I was closing my public relations firm, Abel Associates (www.abelpr.com). I told them absolutely not! The two companies were highly compatible and would operate accordingly.
When I made that comment, some people understood what I meant immediately. Others gave me a puzzled look. For those who seemed puzzled, I went on to explain.
Abel Associates knows public relations. We understand that public relations is all about perception, and perception is reality. How a company’s internal publics (employees) and external publics (clients, prospects, vendors, etc.) see the company reflects directly on the company’s public image.
Studies show that people who are fit are viewed much more positively than people who are not fit. So if your workforce is fit, logic says your external publics will have a more positive impression of you. Studies also show unfit workers cost American companies billions of dollars annually in absenteeism, lost productivity and higher healthcare costs. Companies that help their workforces become healthier are sending a message that they care. Employees who feel valued and respected are more loyal and that saves companies money in lower turnover. The bottom line is that a fit workforce is a not just a good investment, it’s good public relations.
I’ve had my public relations firm for 20 years. I’m passionate about P.R. I’m equally passionate about fitness and helping people get healthy. Now I’m getting to share my expertise in both of my work passions to help others. I can’t think of anything more rewarding than that.
abelfitness 
Leave a Reply