The success of a small business depends in large part on its public media relations. Promoting the company to the public in effective ways can help to build the brand and attract consumer interest. Here are some things a small business can do to enhance public relations.
Public Presence
Whether online or at a specific location in your community, let others know you are there and that your business can provide services or products that can help them. Friendly postcards, window signs, business posters, and other informal efforts can alert the public to your presence in their midst. Online, you can use a business website and social media with insightful advice or friendly comments to build a following.
PR Media Exposure
Contact local news outlets, television stations, and radio talk shows to offer an interview on a topic related to your business. For example, if you are a tool rental company, offer tips on which tools to use for certain types of home repairs, like updating your landscape or waterproofing the basement. A toy store owner could give tips on popular educational toys that are great for kids of certain ages or grade levels. Provide helpful knowledge that the public can use so they will recognize you as an expert and do business with your company.
Community Support
Get involved with the local community where you live and work. Participate in annual festivals, fairs, and public events to show your interest. Sponsor a youth sports team or donate to causes within the community, like backpack meals for kids or a recycling initiative. Make donations to civic causes or family fundraisers for those dealing with tragedies. When people see that you care about them, they are more likely to patronize your business.
Professional Launch
If your business lacks the funds for these tasks or you do not have the time or expertise to promote your company, you could hire a public affairs firm to do the job for you. The firm will evaluate your company’s goals and target audience before developing a public relations campaign to position your business exactly in the niche where it needs to be to attract consumers who are most likely to be interested. Public relations professionals with proven results have the expertise and media tools needed to get your company noticed and respected.
Don’t overlook this important aspect of your company’s development and growth. Start building a PR presence to have an impact on your community and local consumers.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan