10 Things You Need to Know About Public Relations
Have you ever told someone that you work in PR, only to watch their face scrunch up in confusion?
You’re not alone. Some of the responses we’ve heard recently have been… “So, you just write press releases?” or “Isn’t that like advertising?” or “Oh, so you just talk to journalists and go to parties?” … I mean, yeah! we love to go to parties and talk to journalists… but PR is soooo much more.
Let’s think of PR more like an iceberg. What’s visible on the surface barely scratches the depth of strategy, creativity and hustle beneath.
Today, we’re debunking myths and shining a spotlight on the real PR - and why, in industries from fashion & beauty to hospitality & tech, it’s utterly indispensable.
One. PR - doesn’t stand for ‘press release’
Long gone are the days when PR was synonymous with press releases. Today, it’s about creating buzz, engaging directly with media, creators and your audience through digital publications, social media, influencers and events. It’s storytelling at it’s finest, designed to make your brand not just seen, but felt.
Two. Audience insight is your compass.
Understanding who you’re talking to is the cornerstone of PR. Unlike advertising, which shouts from the rooftops hoping someone (within the targeting you’ve set up) listens, PR engages in conversation. It’s about knowing what makes your audience tick and tailoring your message to resonate deeply.
Three. The power of storytelling.
Every brand has a story, but not all are memorable. PR weaves your values, missions and visions into narratives that stick with people, build emotional connections and elevate your brand from just another name to a beloved icon.
Four. Beyond the surface - relationships matter.
PR is rooted in relationships - with journalists, influencers and your audience. These connections are gold, turning a cold call into a warm welcome for your stories in the media.
Five. Timing and relevance.
Launching a PR campaign isn’t about firing at will; it’s about striking when the iron is hot. Whether it’s a product launch or a seasonal story, timing your PR efforts can mean the difference between a splash and a wave.
Six. Measuring success is possible.
In this digital age, PR is no longer a shot in the dark. Tools like Flaunter make it easy to measure the impact of your PR campaigns, from the reach of your press releases to the engagement with your media kits. It’s data-driven decision making at its best.
Seven. Media kits and online press centres.
Your media kit and online press centre are more than just information repositories or asset management tools; they’re your brand’s handshake. Well-crafted, they convey credibility, professionalism and make journalists’ and influencers’ lives easier - positioning your brand as a preferred story source.
Eight. SEO is the PR game changer.
SEO might seem like a marketing task, but it’s integral to modern PR. By optimising content with the right keywords, your stories and press releases don’t just reach audiences; they find them exactly when they’re searching.
Nine. A picture’s worth.
Attention spans are short. Getting shorter. Visual content in your PR materials compliment the story, sure, but more than that, these visuals can tell the story on their own. High-quality, engaging visuals are key to stopping the scroll and starting the conversation.
Ten. PR isn’t just for crisis control.
While PR certainly shines in a crisis, its true power lies in building and maintaining a positive brand image over time. It’s about consistent, positive presence and not just damage control.
Whether you're a seasoned PR pro or just dipping your toes in, remember: PR is about telling your story on your terms, building genuine relationships, and staying true to your brand's essence. It's not just a part of the marketing mix; it's the heart of how you connect with the world.
If you're launching a new product, aiming to elevate your brand presence, or simply looking for ways to tell your story more compellingly, Flaunter is your go-to. Our platform is designed to demystify PR, offering tools and insights that bridge the gap between your brand and its audience, between stories and headlines, between content and clicks.
Get started with our free brand and agency trial, or contact us for a complimentary chat about your PR strategy.
Image by Botanical Republic Skincare on Flaunter