If you were asked to fly to New York for a news segment tomorrow, could you go? If your sales sky rocketed today, do you have the inventory to support it? Ok, now let’s get back down to Earth. While we have seen those scenarios happen with our clients, the majority of companies that participate in PR have a steady gradual climb that increases their brand awareness in the minds of consumers.
So how do you know if you are really ready for a campaign? Here are some general rules of thumb that you should review before you embark on this exciting and worthwhile adventure.
When it comes to starting a PR campaign, we recommend that you ask yourself a couple of questions.
1. Is the product that your company wishes to get media coverage for on the market and available for purchase?
2. Do you have a functioning website where consumers can read about your product and make a purchase?
- Please note while Social Media sites such as Facebook are great, we recommend that you have a physical company website that acts as a home base
3. Do you have high quality professional images available to send to your Publicist and the media?
- While you can get away with photos you have taken, professional photographs go a long way.
If the answer to all of the above questions is yes, then a PR campaign may be just what the Doctor ordered to catapult your company into the spotlight. There are a couple more pain-free things that you will need to have ready before the glorious launch date of your campaign. By having these items taken care of early, you make it easier for your publicity team to focus on getting you media coverage.
We recommend that you have the following ready to go prior to the start of a Public Relations campaign.
- Press Kit: This can be as simple as a company brochure, some additional information about your product and a business card
- Samples ready to ship. Discuss this with your Publicist because the number needed will vary on the scope and length of the campaign
- Personal bio for anyone in the company that will be a point of contact for the media
- Headshot for anyone in the company that will be a point of contact for the media
- Public Relations is a powerful way to get your message in front of consumers and grow your brand awareness. You never know where a television news segment, a feature article in a newspaper, or even a write-up in an online publication will take your business. We wish you much success, and if you see us at your next trade show…say hello
