How do I do my own PR?

Struggling to get your small business noticed? You’re not alone. In today’s crowded marketplace, it can be challenging for entrepreneurs to cut through the noise and gain the exposure they deserve. But fear not, my friend! By implementing a few savvy PR strategies, you can take control of your brand’s narrative and reach your target audience like never before.

Before we dive in, let’s address the elephant in the room: “Can’t I just hire a fancy PR firm to handle all this for me?” While professional PR agencies can be invaluable resources, their services often come with a hefty price tag that may not fit within a small business’s budget. Plus, as the face and voice of your company, who better to tell your story than you?

The Power of Storytelling

At its core, effective PR is all about storytelling. Think about the brands you admire and connect with – chances are, they’ve mastered the art of crafting a compelling narrative that resonates with their audience. As a small business owner, you possess a unique perspective and journey that sets you apart from the competition. Embrace it!

Identify Your Angles

What makes your business special? Perhaps it’s your innovative product or service, your commitment to sustainability, or your deep ties to the local community. These unique angles are the hooks that will pique the interest of writers, bloggers, and journalists.

Once you’ve pinpointed your angles, it’s time to craft your pitch. Remember, journalists receive countless pitches daily, so yours needs to be concise, attention-grabbing, and tailored to the specific publication or outlet you’re targeting.

Leverage Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful PR tool, allowing you to connect directly with your audience and amplify your message. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn offer prime real estate for sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, industry insights, and engaging content that showcases your brand’s personality.

Consistency is key when it comes to social media – aim to post regularly and interact with your followers to build a loyal community. And don’t be afraid to get creative! Live streams, Q&A sessions, and user-generated content can all help humanize your brand and foster meaningful connections.

Cultivate Media Relationships

While cold pitching can yield results, building genuine relationships with members of the media can be a game-changer for your PR efforts. Follow journalists and influencers in your industry, engage with their content, and look for opportunities to provide value – whether it’s offering expert commentary or sharing insightful data.

Remember, these relationships are a two-way street. Be respectful of reporters’ time and deadlines, and always aim to provide them with the information they need to craft a compelling story.

Embrace Thought Leadership

Positioning yourself as a thought leader in your industry is a surefire way to enhance your credibility and attract media attention. Consider writing guest posts for influential blogs or industry publications, or even launching your own podcast or YouTube channel to share your expertise.

Not only will this boost your visibility, but it will also establish you as a trusted authority in your field, which can lead to increased brand loyalty and more opportunities for coverage.

Celebrate Wins and Milestones

Don’t be shy about touting your successes! Whether it’s a prestigious award, a major contract, or a significant charitable contribution, these achievements are newsworthy and deserve to be celebrated.

Craft a compelling press release (or better yet, a multimedia package with photos and videos) and distribute it to relevant media outlets. You’d be surprised at how many publications are eager to share positive, inspiring stories about small businesses thriving in their communities.

In the ever-evolving world of PR, adaptability is key. Stay on top of industry trends, embrace new technologies and platforms, and never stop refining your approach. With dedication, creativity, and a genuine passion for your brand, you can craft a PR strategy that resonates with your audience and propels your small business to new heights.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take control of your narrative and let your story shine!

Looking for more small business help? See our article on
The Crucial Areas of a Small Business