Five top tips for effective PR activity

For many small businesses and start-ups the task of accelerating exposure for their company can prove extremely daunting. Effective public relations are however an essential cog in the wheel of natural business growth. Raising the profile of a small business must be conducted in a professional manner in order to avoid damaging the overall reputation of the company.

As a result here are five useful tips for SMEs and start-ups looking to engage in effective PR activity.

Don’t be afraid of social media

Now is the time to ‘get with the cool kids’ and adopt a social media strategy for online interaction with potential customers and clients. Although initially it may appear a minefield coming to terms with the nuances of the many social media platforms, it is worth investing time in understanding how social media marketing works as it is highly likely you will lose out on valuable business leads if you don’t dip your toe into the water. Keep customers informed of new products and services and try and develop relationships with media contacts to enhance your web presence.

Show off your knowledge. Blog it.

Online blogging is a cost-effective way of building up a reputation and a readership as an authority in your chosen field. If you wish to share your knowledge with customers and even competitors within your sphere a blog is a great way to build credibility. Blogs can also be tied to social media profiles to allow businesses to share their articles with followers and fans at the touch of a button.

Show your face. Network.

Attending networking events is a great way to establish your businesses’ brand and also put faces to names with relevant local and national businesses. Some business start-ups may also take the bold move to organise their own events or seminars in a bid to establish themselves as thought-provoking and innovative in their field. Events should be a regular factor of any SMEs’ PR activity, whether it is a brief business breakfast or a weekend expo.

Submit entries for business awards

Nothing says business growth and success more than an acclaimed award. Many SMEs are frightened of submitting entries for esteemed business awards and consequently they miss out on the opportunity to add legitimacy to their skills. Make a note of upcoming business awards and aim to enter at least one a month. If you don’t take the plunge the chances are your competitors are gaining all the acclaim and exposure instead.

Let numbers help you do the talking

When it comes to creating and distributing a traditional or online press release nothing adds more interest and credibility than interesting statistics garnered from a survey. Online surveys are relatively inexpensive but can add a very interesting angle to a story related to your business and its industry. A well written, well researched PR article will also be easy copy for newspapers and magazines to use to enhance your presence.

More business marketing advice

Four tips for SMEs undertaking competitor analysis
Essential guide to email marketing
Building your brand post-recession

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