PR is all about generating ‘buzz,’ and perhaps that’s why there are so many buzzwords in the public relations space. But with that comes just as many questions and we always want R clients (and potential clients) to be in the know. So, we’re clearing up any confusion on what PR is, how it works and how it can benefit your brand with these FAQs.

What is public relations (PR)?

In general, public relations (PR) is the process of maintaining a favorable image and building beneficial relationships between an organization and the public communities, groups and people it serves. As such, PR is often referred to as ‘free advertising’ because it primarily includes earned media such as:

  • Mentions in the news as well as reviews
  • Positive comments from customers on social media
  • High organic rankings on search engines

How is PR different from marketing? 

The short answer. The primary difference between the two is that marketing is focused on promoting a specific product, service or idea; and increasing sales, while public relations is focused on maintaining a positive reputation for the company overall. Check out our recent blog to learn more.

What do PR people do?

People who work in PR have many different titles, but the goal is one and the same; to create and maintain a positive public image for their employer or client. They use techniques and strategies related to managing how information about an individual or company is disseminated to the public, and especially the media. For example, R PR services include:

  • Campaign development and management
  • Media relationships
  • Influencer relationships and marketing
  • Media training for staff
  • Content creation
  • Pitching
  • Traditional and digital media placements
  • Editorial advance placements
  • Community partnerships

What are the benefits of PR?

There are a multitude of benefits for brands that implement effective PR strategies. We could go on for days, and that’s why we always start with a discovery call. Because once we get to know you and learn your goals, we’ll create a proposal with a customized service outline that details the specific benefits of PR for your brand. But, in general, the benefits of PR include:

  • Increasing brand credibility
  • Increasing brand awareness and positive brand image
  • Increasing profits, sales and leads
  • Enhancing online presence

What is lifestyle PR?

Practitioners who work in lifestyle PR, like R firm, specialize in brands within industries that include restaurant, hospitality and retail as well as health and wellness. All of the same PR goals, strategies and techniques still apply, but this segment of PR tends to focus on the things people aspire to have, to achieve or to maintain a certain lifestyle and the brands that can help them achieve that. Success in lifestyle PR requires a more inherently relatable and personal approach, which is why we love it so much!

What is the price of PR?

Large PR agencies may charge upwards of $500 an hour for their time, however, smaller agencies or consultants may charge as little as $75 an hour. The average hourly rate at a larger PR agency is currently between $150-$250 per hour. R founder, Emily Reynolds Bergh, explains the value boutique PR firms can offer, “As a small business, we are mindful that not everyone can spend big when it comes to PR. So, we also have lower budget options in which clients can apply. One is based on promoting a specific project. The other is designed to support a solo entrepreneur for 6 months by developing their reach and brand identity, as well as a PR plan and campaign to launch them into the market in which they seek to connect. The end game is long-term relationships, not just a mass press release. And that provides ongoing value for your brand (and us).” Learn more about PR pricing in our recent blog.

What is a PR retainer? 

In addition to hourly billing, you may also have the option of a PR retainer for the services you need. A PR retainer is a lump sum that you pay to the public relations agency or professional each month for their work. The amount paid depends on how much work you need to meet your PR goals and your budget, so it’s important to be specific about both in your preliminary communications. Your monthly statement should itemize any work performed as well as any expenses that were not included in the retainer. You should also be able to request the right to approve any expenses over a certain amount before they are incurred.

What is Newsjacking?

When hiring a publicist, one technique in which you want to make sure they are skilled and experienced is newsjacking. Newsjacking is the practice of aligning a brand with a current event in an attempt to generate media attention and boost the brand’s exposure. Brands create related blog content and social posts to instantly reach a wider audience. Essentially, if you see an article written about a competitor or someone with a similar brand, you can have your publicist reach out to that media contact and ideally get your brand included in a similar story or an update to the one you may have seen! How cool is that?

For R help with your PR, learn more about our public relations services. Or, click HERE to schedule your FREE discovery call today!