12 Public Relations Strategies for Small Businesses
Are you missing out on valuable opportunities because your small business can’t afford a fancy PR firm? Organizations of any size can benefit from public relations, and there are many techniques that you can use on your own.
In fact, you probably engage in PR as you go about your customer service and other daily tasks. Becoming more intentional could make you more successful in communicating strategically, building a positive reputation, and increasing your sales.
While PR requires time and effort, the payoff is big because it’s usually less expensive than paid advertising and regarded more favorably. See what it can do for your business.
General Principles for Public Relations for Small Businesses
Public relations is how you shape your image and build relationships between your business and the public. That usually includes customers, employers, and investors, as well as other audiences that matter to you.
Keep these relationship-building strategies in mind:
- Tell your story. Put a friendly human face on your business. Demonstrate what makes you special and unique. Forge an emotional connection by being sincere and authentic. Ask your loyal customers what they love about you. Your message will sound even more persuasive coming from them.
- Stay informed. Keep up with what’s going on in your field. Network with others, attend conferences and read industry publications and local news.
- Be helpful. PR is more successful when you concentrate on what you can do for others. Try to give customers and reporters what they need instead of thinking only about promoting your own interests.
- Do your homework. Journalists and social media influencers receive mountains of pitches and requests. Show them that you respect their time. The research will help you to identify their needs and customize your approach.
- Follow through. Lasting relationships depend on trust. Be prepared to deliver what you promise and ensure that you have data to support your claims.
- Spot trends. You can learn from PR experts even if you don’t have the budget to hire them. Pay attention to what other businesses are doing and adapt some of their initiatives to reach your own goals.
Specific Strategies for Public Relations for Small Businesses
You have plenty of options, so find the mix that works for your business. You may get your greatest return from traditional media, digital platforms, or live interactions.
- Take advantage of media coverage. Greater visibility is one of the rewards of PR, especially if you receive favorable treatment from respected sources. Pitch your story and do interviews. If you’re skillful and persistent, reporters may start calling you.
- Share your expertise. Put your knowledge and experience to work. In addition to providing content for news stories, you can publish your own materials, book speaking engagements, and participate in online forums.
- Monitor your mentions. Keep track of what others are saying about you. Sign up for Google Alerts or other notification services. Respond promptly to criticism and thank others for their feedback.
- Give back. Support your local community and worthy causes. Donate money and encourage your employees to volunteer. Sponsor a fun run or clean up a beach for Earth Day.
- Create resources. Develop an accessible archive of high-quality content. That way, you’ll be prepared to make a positive impression when potential customers are searching for information or reporters need quick answers while you’re on vacation.
- Consider outsourcing. While there are many things you can handle yourself, you may want to explore professional PR services too. The investment could be worthwhile if you’re trying to manage a crisis or launch a major new campaign.
You can communicate effectively and build mutually supportive relationships with a DIY approach to public relations. Strategic outreach will help your small business to stand out and succeed.
Thank You Praesum Healthcare!
“I made the switch to Kill the Ball Media for several projects and I couldn’t be happier. Communication time is practically immediate with him”
Thank you Bay State Savings Bank
Joe Santa Maria of Kill the Ball Media is an absolute delight to work with. Knowledgeable, open to ideas, and a great communicator.
2019 CMHA Walk for the Homeless
Incredible turnout on Sunday, May 19 for the annual Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance Walk...
3 Benefits of Professional Photography for Small Businesses
Professional photography can help you capture memories, create a professional image, and make your business stand out. Learn more about the benefits of hiring a professional photographer and how it can help you achieve your goals.
5 Digital Marketing Strategies Every Small Business Should Be Doing
Digital marketers have a significant responsibility to stay abreast of the ever-evolving landscape of technology, social media, and software.
Five Strategies for Leveraging Your Blog to Strengthen Your Brand
With the right tools and resources, you can create a blog that will help you stand out from the crowd and make your mark on the digital landscape.
The Power of Podcasts on Radio Worcester
I’ve really learned the value of podcasts for local businesses over the past several years as a result of my time working with Radio Worcester founder Hank Stolz.
8 Simple Methods for Generating Great Ideas
Like many other things in life, generating great ideas requires practice to be able to do it consistently.
Clutch Recognizes Kill the Ball Media as a Top Web Design Company
It goes without saying but, a successful website is a beautiful website. Not just aesthetically,...
Worcester Red Sox
First visit to @polarpark2021 for Marge and me. Worcester Red Sox have done a great job of...
9 Ways to Rank Your Website Without Backlinks
Despite what you may have seen online and from various experts in the field, it is certainly possible to rank your website without backlinks.
Sweets ‘n Java
His photography is amazing and only surpassed by his great personality and ease of working with. Thank you Joe!!
Kingsbury Club & Spa
Hired Kill the Ball Media in 2015 Service: Graphic Design, Photography"Joe has been doing an...
CONTACT
+01 978.212.9698
About Kill the Ball Media
We are a Metro Worcester Massachusetts-based Website Design and Digital Marketing Agency that creates beautiful and effective digital content for small businesses, non-profits, and personal branding projects.
Kill the Ball Media
800 Main Street
Suite 222
Holden, Massachusetts 01520
P – 978.212.9698
E – joe@killtheballmedia.com
Contact
