August 10, 2020
What to Look for Before Hiring a PR Firm for Your Small Business
You’re excited about your new business. You got your EIN Number and you are registered with your state. You are legit for real-FOR REAL! You have dreamed and fantasized of the day when you can hand in your two-week notice to your employer who never appreciated your talents anyway. And that day has finally come!
Despite your excitement, you log on to your website and see that no one has bought any of your products. Your phone isn’t ringing off the hook, and you realize that payment on your bills is approaching. You know that you have a great product, however, other than your family, no one knows about it.
So, what do you do? That’s when you begin to search for a public relations firm.
BLACK ENTERPRISE chatted with PR expert Lillie Mae, owner of the Glambitious PR Firm, who shared tips on what to do and what not to do when hiring a PR Firm:
- Seek a firm that has represented other clients in your industry and ask about their most recent media placements from the last three months. Consider inquiring with some of your trusted colleagues for PR referrals, to ensure the firm has a great reputation and proven results. Everyone talks a good game, but where are the results?
- Hire an established PR firm, I would suggest that foremost. However, if you do not have the budget, I’d recommend reading a few PR books to learn how to craft an effective media pitch and properly pitch a media outlet. Educate yourself as much as possible. You do not want to be taken advantage of due to a lack of knowledge.
- In the meantime, book a professional photo shoot to make sure that you have quality photos and begin speaking about your business through various virtual events. Host an Instagram Live series to interview other esteemed professionals in your field and create a digital flyer that can be used to promote it. Participate in a co-author opportunity to cross-market your business with other entrepreneurs or co-host a webinar with an established platform. You can also advertise your business through email newsletters, Facebook groups, and the Instagram pages that cater to your demographic.
Dr. Jessica Mosley is a serial entrepreneur who loves teaching fellow CEO women how to show up in their truth and power. As Steward Owner of MizCEO Entrepreneurial Media Brand, Sovereign Care Home Care, Sovereign Care Medical Training Center, and Deborah’s Place for Battered Women, Jessica is busy making moves that impact her community and those connected to her.