What comes to mind when you think of PR? Someone at a podium putting out a media fire? Breaking news from a national corporation making headlines across the internet? A celebrity on a talk show announcing their next big movie role?
While you wouldn’t be wrong with these examples, there are many, many more. Just as PR is important for big corporations, celebrities and politicians, it’s just as important for your small business.
PR boosts credibility
Even for a small business, particularly when you have competitors in your area, enhancing your brand credibility can be the one aspect that places you above the rest. Through PR, you can earn media placement in local magazines, newspapers, TV and radio, making you top-of-mind for your local audience. This earned media presence enhances your credibility because you now have a third party (the media) talking about your brand, directly to your local audience.
PR helps prevent or recover from a crisis
How would a small business have a crisis? I’m glad you asked. Bad customer reviews, negative social media comments, a disgruntled employee or former employee blasts you on the internet, someone is injured at your store, false allegations are made about you or an employee…shall I continue? While crises can be rare in a well-run business, they’re always a possibility. An experienced agency like Ripley PR can help prevent these potential situations, as well as aid you in navigating the aftermath.
PR enhances your brand presence
Part of preventing crises lies in having a good reputation in the first place. When people view your brand in a positive light because of good PR, they’re less likely to discount you when something goes wrong.
Want to learn more about what East Tennessee public relations can do for your local business? Give Maryville-based Ripley PR a call today at (865) 977-1973 or visit us online.
