If you’re like most CEOs or business owners, you know that a strong public relations strategy is critical to the success of your company. After all, what use is having a great product or service if no one knows about it? That’s where hiring a reputable PR firm like Interdependence Public Relations comes in. But once you’ve made the decision to outsource your PR needs, how can you be sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck?
Here are five ways to get the most out of your PR firm:
1. Define Your Goals upfront
The first step is to sit down with the firm you’ve hired and discuss what your specific goals are. What does success look like to you? Are you looking to increase brand awareness? Drive more traffic to your website? Generate more sales? Once you’ve identified your goals, make sure they align with the capabilities of the firm you’ve chosen. A good PR firm will be upfront about what they can and cannot do.
2. Set Some Ground Rules
It’s important to set ground rules from the outset so that there are no misunderstandings down the road. For example, how often do you want to communicate? What is an acceptable response time for complaints or questions? Will they be regularly reporting back to you with updates on their progress? By setting these expectations early on, everyone will be on the same page moving forward.
3. Take Advantage of Their Expertise
One of the reasons you decided to hire a PR firm in the first place was because of their expertise, so don’t be afraid to lean on them for guidance. If they suggest a course of action that you’re not comfortable with, by all means, speak up. But hear them out and give their ideas a chance before shooting them down outright. They’ve been doing this a lot longer than you have!
4. Provide Feedback…and Lots of It
Your PR team can’t do their job effectively if they don’t know what’s working and what isn’t. They also can’t read your mind, so it’s important that you provide regular feedback—good and bad. If something isn’t working, tell them why so they can adjust their approach accordingly. And when they land that big media placement or secure that high-profile speaking engagement, be sure to let them know how much you appreciate their efforts! Positive reinforcement goes a long way in any relationship—professional or personal.
5. Be Prepared to Pay Up
Hiring a reputable PR firm doesn’t come cheap—but it’s worth every penny when done correctly. A good rule of thumb is to expect to pay anywhere from $2,500-$20,000 per month, depending on the size and needs of your company. But keep in mind that this is an investment—one that will pay off many times over if done correctly. So don’t hesitate to open up your wallet if it means landing that big client or scoring placements in top-tier publications!
Final Word
A good public relations strategy is critical for any company that wants to be successful—no matter how big or small it may be. And while hiring a reputable PR firm can definitely take your business up a notch, it’s important to remember that this is an investment—one that requires time, effort, and, yes, money. By following these five tips, you can maximize your chances for success and get the most bang for your buck when working with a PR firm.
