Why PR could be your best business move in 2023
If you want to be seen by more potential customers in 2023, drive traffic to your website, be seen as an expert by millions and boost your confidence and sales, PR could help make that goal a reality.
While the media might be awash with political unrest and stories of woe, it’s a potent communications tool when used correctly.
PR, aka Public Relations, allows your story to be told on many platforms and thus will enable you to reach potential new audiences that could help build your business and confidence.
Having worked in the PR world for nearly 25 years, I would love to share some easy-to-follow ideas and tips to get you thinking about whether this could be added to your comms mix, so you are more visible in the year ahead and beyond.
What is your USP?
Journalists, influencers, podcasters, and bloggers receive hundreds, even thousands, of press releases and pitches every week. You need to stand out from the crowds if you want them to open your message and read your pitch.
Take a step back from your business and think about what makes it and you, unique.
Maybe you have used new research to create your services, you’re an expert in your field of dating, or perhaps you have incorporated sustainability into your business in a new and inspiring way.
Whatever that essential element, ensure that message is highlighted in all your PR efforts.
Who are you talking to?
When it comes to PR, you need to identify your target audience because they are the people who are going to buy into you and your offerings.
Is it mums of kids under five? Is it small business owners with less than 100 staff? Do you want to reach the creators of cakes and sweet treats?
Whoever it is, be sure and clear, as this will not only determine your PR work but all marketing, social media, and advertising messaging, so you need to get it right.
Know the media
Once you know your target audience, you need to find out what media they use. For example, my first book, Cast Life was aimed at parents and carers of children with DDH as well as health professionals. Yes, it was a niche area, but once I started pulling it apart, there were many relevant outlets, from parenting magazines and health blogs to my local newspapers and the nursing press, where there was a natural fit and coverage was secured.
Once you have identified the media your audience consumes (ask them if you need to), get to know those titles inside and out. Supermarkets, libraries, and shops like WHSmith’s have a great selection of newspapers and magazines, as do many libraries. Get a feel for what they cover and what regular opportunities are available. Contact details are often found in the ‘masthead’ at the front of publications, or you can research online to find the information you need.
Get Social
Twitter is a fantastic PR resource as it allows you to engage with writers, bloggers, journalists, and reviewers. Make sure you follow the publications, journalists, and bloggers you would like to work with but remember that it isn’t about the hard sell from your first Tweet. It’s more about building relationships and raising awareness so that when you pitch an idea, they are familiar with who you are and what you do.
Keep the Faith
One of the critical things to remember about PR is that it takes time, and you can’t expect to be on the front of Red magazine on day one – if you manage that, let me know! Do your research, take your time, and get your angles right, and it will happen.
If you have any questions or want to know how I could help you use the press to grow your business and confidence, contact me at natalietrice@natalietrice.co.uk and let’s chat.
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