BKXX Enterprises specializes in public relations for small businesses. That’s right, your business can be seen by the world and not just those really close to you! Publicize your endeavors with BKXX Enterprises and be seen by the whole globe (or at least the population of your town)!
Did you know that PR could be a valuable tool for any size business? There are many techniques and strategies available to apply on your own. If we look at customer service alone, it’s clear how essential good communication skills can be. Is this something you’re currently interested in exploring more deeply?
If so, read on…
Public Relations is one of the most critical components that can make or break your business. You have to build a positive reputation and be strategic with your communications if you want to increase your sales. The good news? It’s not as hard for small businesses like yours because there are plenty of opportunities out there.
Public Relations can be a challenging subject to tackle. Small business owners often don’t have the time or funds to hire a PR firm, so they are left without any strategy at all. While PR requires time and effort, it’s usually less expensive than paid advertising and regarded more favorably due to its authenticity over other forms of advertisement.
Using these strategies can help give you an edge on marketing against competitors. By targeting specific audiences interested in what you have to say about your product/service, they will be more receptive to your offer.
This blog post will provide you with 12 highly effective and actionable tips for small business public relations!
“People don’t buy goods and services. They buy relations, stories and Magic.”
– Seth Godin
General Principles for Public Relations for Small Businesses
Public relations is how you shape the way people think about your company, product, or service. It’s a form of marketing designed to influence public opinion by gaining media exposure and building relationships with influential bloggers and journalists.
Keep these relationship-building strategies in mind:
- Tell your story. Putting a friendly human face on your business is an excellent way to forge emotional connections with customers. Ask loyal customers what they love about you and use their feedback as the basis for improving customer service, making them feel special when doing transactions with you.
- Stay informed. Keep up with what’s going on in the field quickly and efficiently by using these three methods. Firstly, network as much as possible to stay connected to your industry peers experiencing similar challenges you might face down the line. Secondly, attend conferences that offer valuable information about topics relevant to your job search so that you can become more knowledgeable than before! Third, read local news or business publications for updates on trends like social media usage among professionals today. Knowing this will help make sure your message stays fresh long-term. Lastly, join social media channels and interact with people, like Facebook groups or Reddit forums related to your field of work.
- Be helpful. PR is more effective when you concentrate on what you can do for others instead of only promoting your interests. Try to give customers and reporters the information they need to help them make decisions or understand complex matters better. Hopefully, their opinion will be favorable towards yours as a result!
- Do your homework. Journalists and social media influencers have a lot on their plate. It’s no surprise that they get pitched all the time, but showing them respect by doing your research in advance will show you care about what matters to them. Take enough time to do some work for yourself before asking instead of just firing off an email or tweet without much thought.
- Follow Through. Trusting relationships are the cornerstone of success. Ensure you keep your promises and back up what you say with facts to be an effective communicator in all situations.
- Spot Trends. Virtually every business owner today knows that the best way to stay ahead of your competitors is by paying close attention to what they’re doing. If you don’t have room in your budget for outside help, look at your competition. See how their marketing strategies could be adapted slightly- maybe with just one simple change or two to fit into your own goals.
“If I was down to my last dollar, I would spend it on public relations.”
– Bill Gates, Chairman Bill & Mellinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft
Specific Strategies For Public Relations for Small Business
You have plenty of options, so find the mix that works for your business. You may get your greatest return from traditional media such as TV commercials and newspaper ads or digital platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Instagram Stories & Post Engagements. The best part is, all free to set up! If you’re looking for a more personal touch, there are always live interactions with people at events in person.
Try these public relations techniques:
- Take advantage of media coverage. One of the rewards of PR is greater visibility, especially if you receive favorable treatment from respected sources. Pitch your story and do interviews to help reporters see what a valuable resource they have in you. If you’re skillful enough and persistent enough, eventually, one or two may start calling on their own accord!
- Share your expertise. Put your knowledge and experience to work. In addition to providing content for news stories, you can publish your materials, book speaking engagements, participate in online forums- or do all three!
- Monitor your mentions. Keep track of what others are saying about you. Sign up for Google Alerts or other notification services to receive updates on your search. Respond promptly when someone posts anything negative to control the narrative they will have about you. Thank people who provide feedback so that it is more likely than not positive overall! If you are struggling to get reviews in for your business. BKXX Enterprises has a phenomenal Reputation Management Program that will notify you of a new review placed on any platform. Reach out today to get more information about this program.
- Give back. Join your local community and support worthy causes. Give money or volunteer to get more involved in the activities they do. Have a fun run, clean up beaches, sponsor other events – these are all ways you can help out.
- Create resources. Ensure that your company is prepared to offer accurate information about their products and services at any time. The onhand resources will allow you the opportunity to build a strong reputation online. Reporters and customers will be grateful that you have readily accessible material for them to use.
- Consider Outsourcing. While there are many things you can handle yourself, hiring a professional might be the best decision. The investment could pay off if you’re trying to manage an event or launch your business on social media channels. BKXX Enterprises has the team and expertise to get your message out to the masses. Reach out today to schedule a 30 min discovery call to see if our services would be a good fit for your company.
There are many ways for businesses to market themselves. Small business owners can do what they’re best at: speaking with people in person or on the phone and interacting face-to-face or online with a DIY approach. Strategic outreach will help your small business stand out among its competition!
