When you run a business, reputation is everything. In our fast-paced world, where customers are faced with a barrage of options and an onslaught of media, it’s critical to help your business stand out from the crowd.
Public relations (PR) is becoming an increasing important component of any marketing strategy. If you are having trouble getting the message out there about what makes your services or products unique, it might be timely to consider how a PR agency could benefit of your business. A PR agency can help you assess the market and get an idea of popular perspectives about your business. PR is really about creating a message and establishing and developing a relationship between your customers and your brand. Some people might think that a PR agency can only be of assistance if your business is in trouble or if you have received some bad press. PR has certainly helped some big organisations out of awkward situations. But that’s not all the PR is about. Working with a PR agency on developing your key messages and position can lead to much better engagement for your business. By having some help to articulate your brand and deliver the right messages to the right customers in the way that suits them best, you will see benefits across the board.
How to Choose the Right PR Agency
If you have decided the time is right to get a PR agency on your side, you will find there are plenty out there to choose from. You will find options from sole traders to large organisations. To help ensure you are selecting an agency who will bring a benefit to your business, try to find a professional who shares your passion for what you do. Some agencies will have more experiences in certain areas or industries. You should expect your PR professional to be enthusiastic and knowledgable in your industry, or at least willing to learn.
When you meet a potential PR professional, make sure that the are asking you questions about what you do rather than telling you about what they have done in the past. Ask peers and associates for recommendations, read online reviews. PR services and plans may vary in duration and amount of work to be done. Be clear with potential providers about your budget, and your timeframes for investment. You will probably want to set up a contract with your PR professional so objectives and expectations are clearly stated from the onset. Your chosen PR agency will also be able to give you advice about more general marketing and communication strategies and ideas for engagement for potential customers.
Choosing the Right PR Agency for your Start-up Business
The stakes are particularly high when you have started up your own small business. Start-up businesses need extra care and attention to manage public perception or they can fail early on. It is really worthwhile to involve a PR agency early in the life of your business to ensure you are creating a brand and message that will have the longevity you need to turn your small business into a sustainable success. Public relations professionals understand how networks contribute to spreading the word about your business, both real life networks and online. They will know how to use these networks to build awareness about your brand. It’s completely reasonable to ask a potential PR advisor about how well connected they are in your area and industry.
Working with a PR agency will help you articulate be really upfront about what is unique about your start up. When you engage the services of a PR professional, you will notice the benefits through an improved understanding of your point of difference and increased visibility in busy marketplaces. Because PR involves monitoring trends and turns in the market, your PR agency will also be able to give you expert advice and guidance about how to operate in the online environment. By getting your message right, and selecting the right channel to share it on, you will build better, deeper relationships with your current and prospective clients.
Looking to work with a PR and communication agency that can help you navigate government engagement? Get in touch with our team at info@fiftyacres.com to learn more.
