PR packs a punch in the credit crunch

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Release Date: 
10 Jul 2008
Running a successful business in a buoyant market is impressive, seeing it successfully through the lean times however requires a new breed of business acumen. This is when PR steps out from behind the scenes and into the limelight, says Sarah Wilkin, Director of Honey PR in Cambridge…

It’s crunch time and the effect of the current economic climate is starting to take its toll on businesses across the region. As a consequence, many companies look to find a short-term solution with cutbacks, and whilst reducing some overheads makes sound business sense, reductions in the wrong area can ultimately affect a company’s long-term stability.

Business directives sometimes react to an economic downturn by trimming marketing budgets or reducing PR activities in readiness for a recession – this seems something of a self-forfiling prophecy – the market is more competitive so why choose to be less active?

Historically, this approach goes hand-in-hand with a ‘sit-tight and hope to ride it out’ mindset, which also potentially adds to the adverse effects of the current climate. What successful companies do is actively drive forward to meet target markets head-on, and this is where the clever use of effective Public Relations packs a powerful punch.

At times such as these, when customer loyalty is fickle, it is more important than ever to keep your company in the public eye. PR can have far-reaching effects on your target audience in ways that will not only assist in generating new business, but also work to create a steady stream of new ideas, contacts and business interests.

Good proactive PR is not only about achieving positive media coverage, although obviously a vital keystone in building brand awareness; it is also about constant and confident communication that maintains a strong public presence and elevates credibility.

Spending hasn’t stopped, it is merely making a more considered choice, so it stands to reason that new ideas to promote business in a way that appeals to the changing consumer mood is essential. It is also why some companies are set to strengthen their assets in the current climate while others will unfortunately fall to the wayside.

Public Relations is a subtle business tool and using it to communicate with your potential market through effective campaigns will enable you to send out clear and consistent messages in a fast-paced marketplace, as it generates media coverage for your product and service in one of the most accessible and cost-effective ways available today.

“If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs…” Rudyard Kipling.

Honey PR has worked with a diverse mix of companies since its conception in 2004. Key accounts include Go Ape High Wire Forest Adventure, Energy4All, The Red Lion in Hinxton, The Pauline Quirk Academy, The Electric Transport Shop, and more.

Honey PR and guests will be presenting a Public Relations Seminar to share expertise with forward-thinking companies that want to learn how to promote business and create a media buzz. Discover how to talk to the press and achieve valuable coverage, learn ways to work with the media, make essential contacts, hone your press writing skills and listen to guest presenters, sharing the secrets of their success.

Do you have a PR dilemma? The Honey Team is happy to offer free advice, simply email info@honeypr.com.

01223 241770, sarah@honeypr.com, http://www.honeypr.com