Instituting a technical writing course for the first time can be difficult. English department members are apt to approach the idea with reluctance and apprehension while those in other departments tend to think of it with idealized ignorance. A public relations effort is necessary; however, such an effort involves information, persuasion, and exposure problems. Some helpful principles for use in solving these problems include dispensing correct, factual information; indicating that the course will be interesting, helpful, or in some way advantageous to the listener; being specific and concrete; and publicizing the course. Such a public relations campaign must be carried on mostly informally over coffee, at dinners, and in faculty offices. In attempting to persuade English department members to accept the program, it is best to stress specific advantages to the department. These advantages include helping majors see the possibility of employment and increasing the number of students enrolled in the department. (TJ)