In this era when digital is king, PR can often be neglected by small businesses trying to grow. While digital marketing can help get your business in front of people, the legitimacy lent by PR activities can lead to more robust leads, a better reputation and more significant exposure to customers, in turn leading to small business growth. But what is PR?
PR constitutes activities which aim to enhance or protect a business’s reputation. It has some crossover with marketing, but marketing tends to be more focussed around the product or service itself rather than perceptions of the business.
PR includes managing relationships with the media, other businesses, and customers. It can support marketing by enhancing the reputation of the business itself. This reflects well on the product or service.
Here are some PR tips that small businesses can use to start managing their reputation.
Develop a media strategy
Having your business featured in publications related to your sector or local area is a great way of enhancing your reputation and building awareness. The first part of any good media strategy is building a database of contacts in various publications, as well as other outlets like radio, TV or digital press. As you continue to work with these contacts, your relationships will develop which may lead to further opportunities down the line.
The second part of a media strategy is having something to say. This could be announcing a new product or service launch, commenting on current news in your sector, or business stories like award wins, contract wins or team expansions. Being featured in respected media outlets will help enhance your business’s reputation, making it appear more reputable by association, as well as putting it in front of more people. A win-win!
Begin some philanthropic efforts
While many small businesses may not have the financial space or time to become involved in philanthropic activities, even small efforts can help enhance a business’s reputation. Especially for small businesses, doing something that assists the local community in some way, whether by becoming involved in an existing initiative or starting one of your own, is an excellent way of getting involved in philanthropy without breaking the bank. Plus, the PR benefits are undeniable!
Go to events (or hold your own!)
Attending sector relevant or local events allows you to become involved in the business community, opening up new opportunities both commercially and in terms of PR. Becoming part of a business community raises the reputation of everyone involved. Furthermore, hosting an event yourself also allows your business to establish authority on its subject matter. This further enhances its reputation.
Do you want to create a PR strategy that’s best for your business? We can help you with all your PR plans and activities. Send us an email at news@allthingsbusiness.co.uk or give us a call on 01604 267677 to get started!
