Why is Public Relations Important for a Small Biz?
Public relations is the professional maintenance of a favorable public image by a company or other organization or a famous person. What does that mean? People have an opinion of your small business. Is that opinion good or bad? Do you know? You actually have a say in what people think of your business. Public relations is simply swaying the masses to think highly of your business. There are several ways you can go about maintaining your image, but for now… let’s focus on what good public relations can do for your business
1. Builds Brand Awareness
Through press releases, media coverage, and community involvement, businesses can reach customers who didn’t know who they were beforehand. Think of it this way… if the radio station decides to mention your small business in their latest story that reaches people driving in their cars, a newspaper mentions you in an article that reaches people reading the news at home, and a fellow small business mentions you on social media that is reaching their demographic, you’re reaching three audiences you don’t normally reach via whatever marketing you already pay for.
2. Establishes Credibility and Trust
Being featured in reputable media outlets or associated with positive news stories can enhance a business’s credibility. Customers are more likely to trust and engage with a small business that has a strong, positive presence in the media. It’s one thing to talk positively about your own small business, but when someone else speaks about it, we have much more of a tendency to listen because we assume they aren’t biased.
3. Public Relations Manages Reputation
PR strategies help manage and maintain a business’s reputation. In times of crisis or negative publicity, effective PR can mitigate damage and help rebuild trust with the public. It could be something like making a charitable donation, sponsoring a local team, having a presence at public events to show support for the community, or announcing how you will correct whatever mistake the business made, anyhting that makes people see your small business in a positive light.
4. Supports Marketing Efforts
PR complements marketing by increasing the reach and effectiveness of promotional campaigns. It provides additional channels to communicate with the audience, enhancing the overall marketing strategy. The more people that see it, the better the outcome of your campaign.
5. Creates Opportunities for Networking and Partnerships
Good PR can lead to opportunities for networking and forming strategic partnerships. By increasing visibility, other businesses, influencers, and potential partners become aware of the business, opening doors for collaborations. Connections are everything. Every time you connect with another business, your reach and network grows.
6. Differentiates from Competitors
Effective PR can help a business stand out from its competitors by highlighting unique aspects, achievements, and values. This differentiation can be a key factor in attracting customers who are looking for something unique. Not every customer wants “just another whatever.” They want Something that stands out from the others on a shelf.
7. Public Relations is Cost-Effective Marketing
For small businesses with limited budgets, PR can be a cost-effective way to promote their brand. Unlike paid advertising, PR relies on earned media, which can provide significant exposure without the high costs. It is usually little to no expense and makes a strong impact.
8. Builds Strong Community Relationships
PR efforts that involve community engagement, sponsorship of local events, and participation in community projects help build strong relationships with the local community. This can lead to customer loyalty and local support.
9. Increases Customer Loyalty
Consistent and positive media coverage helps build a strong brand image, which in turn fosters customer loyalty. Customers are more likely to stay loyal to a brand they perceive as trustworthy and reputable.
Need Help with Your Public Relations?
If all of this seems really overwhelming… or even if you just need another opinion on your public relations, schedule a free business coaching appointment today! We would love to help you think through and develop an awesome public relations campaign for your business.
