Final answer:
If a company practiced two-way symmetrical communications, it would be engaging in an ethical and effective public relations model focused on mutual understanding and dialogue. This approach involves negotiation and compromise, and aims to build trust and mutual respect between the company and its stakeholders.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a company practiced two-way symmetrical communications, it would be employing a public relations model that emphasizes mutual understanding and dialogue between the company and its stakeholders. This model is one of the four models of public relations described by James Grunig and Todd Hunt in their book 'Managing Public Relations'. In a system of two-way symmetrical communication, the company actively engages with its publics to understand their needs and concerns, and also to explain its own perspective. It's a balanced approach where neither party dominates the conversation, and the goal is to build a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
The two-way symmetrical model is considered ideal because it focuses on negotiation and compromise rather than merely trying to persuade publics or manipulate public opinion. Companies using this model strive for open communication channels that allow for feedback and adjustments to policies and behaviors based on that feedback. Therefore, it can lead to more ethical and effective public relations that benefit both the organization and its stakeholders.