Signs That It’s Time To Hire a Press and Publicity Consultant
In the beginning, when a company is just starting out, it often makes sense to hold tight to the budget. This often means doing everything yourself, including press and public relations. The first step for many firms, as they begin to grow, is to outsource some of the tasks and responsibilities to specialists.
This is a savvy strategy because hiring specialists allows you and your organization to focus on what you do best. Whether you hire someone and add them to your team, or outsource to a firm, there are some surefire signs that it’s time to hire a press and publicity person.
#1 You Can’t Remember the Last Time You Issued a Press Release
When did you last issue a press release? How many opportunities to gain good PR have passed you by simply because you and your marketing department are too busy? You’d be surprised how many legitimate press releases can be written and distributed, and the impact that each one can have on your marketing and sales. If you are missing out on these opportunities, then you’re missing out on potential sales and growth.
#2 You Issue Releases Without Rhyme or Reason
Many organizations are on the ball when it comes to creating press releases and distributing them, but they might not have any goals for them. They’re just issuing releases because they know they should. Any tactic within your marketing campaign, including press releases, needs to have an objective. If you don’t have goals, then you’re missing out on the full power of a press release.
#3 You Don’t Know How Your Press Releases Are Doing
Are you reviewing your results? Do you know what releases are being shared on social media? If you have goals for a press release, are you achieving them? If you’re not reviewing your stats and adapting your press release marketing strategy to them, then it’s time to hire a consultant. A consultant will help you not only create a press and publicity marketing strategy, they’ll guide you to change the strategy and adapt it as your audience responds.
Finally, it’s time to hire a press and publicity consultant if you don’t have a plan in place to manage bad publicity, or good publicity. You want to have documents ready, jobs assigned, and systems in place to respond quickly to any positive or negative change in the industry, or within your business. Not being prepared has ruined some businesses and created significant missed opportunities for others.
Keep in mind that hiring an outside service to consult on your press and PR doesn’t have to break the bank. You can work with them to find a solution that fits your current needs and goals. With a good PR plan in place, your business can grow and thrive.
