Final answer:
A good publicist primarily acts as a mediator between their client and the media to ensure wide coverage and positive press. They craft press releases and strategically manage the client's image through media exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A good publicist must primarily act as a mediator between their client and the news media. Their role is to ensure that the client's public appearances are properly covered by the news media and the press, with the goal of getting wide coverage of each event in the client's schedule. They work closely with the media coordinator to coordinate and facilitate the coverage.
The publicist also crafts press releases and other media materials to present the client in a positive light. These materials are distributed to the media outlets and journalists to generate news coverage. The publicist's aim is to promote and improve the client's image through positive press and media exposure.
This field falls under the domain of public relations, which is a communication discipline focused on managing the relationship and perception between an individual or organization and the public.