Launch your own PR and marketing campaign to accomplish your business goals.
Most business owners know that creating and implementing a sound public relations and marketing plan can help them move their business forward and increase their chances of achieving their business goals. Unfortunately, however, a lot of them don?t know how to get started. Some do not even have the slightest idea on what PR is all about.
Basically, PR involves raising your target market?s awareness about your brand in a unique way. It strives to define your brand, build your reputation, and set what differentiates you from the rest of the competition. It aims to create a strong positive perception of your company without having you pay for anything. And that?s what makes it different from advertising.
DIY PR Tips for Small Business Owners
Since most small businesses do not have enough resources to hire a professional PR firm, here are some simple tips and tricks that can help you launch your own PR and marketing campaign without breaking the bank.
Blog to build your brand. Blogging can help you get your message across to your intended audience and build awareness around your brand. Thus, it pays to establish your own blog and do regular guest blogging in relevant authoritative blogs in your industry.
Join in the conversation. Being a part of the online conversation is one great way to improve your company?s PR. You can sign up for HootSuite to keep track of the relevant conversations in your industry.
Use social media. You can use social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to advertise and promote your company, and engage your target customers on a deeper level.
Build relationships with journalists. Keep a list of journalists, bloggers, and other media professionals who are covering the news in your industry, follow them on their social media channels, and engage them in a conversation before letting them know that you have something they may want to publish. Thank those who publish your news release and make sure you keep in touch.
An effective PR and marketing plan can help you take your business to the next level but keep in mind that you will not get the results you need overnight or even after a few weeks or a few months. But stay in the game and prepare to reap the rewards.
