There are a few misconceptions when it comes to PR agencies. In fact, a lot of people in business aren’t really sure what a PR consultancy does and how public relations fits in with their company. Here are a few truths about how they really work:
• PR agencies don’t just send out press releases. This is only part of what they do and in some cases, it doesn’t feature at all in a campaign. There are a lot more ways to get a brand name and a message heard and a lot of these can be more effective than a press release.
• PR agencies are not always at war with reporters. In fact, a lot can work alongside them. If the two parties communicate well and treat each other professionally, the outcome is much more likely to be mutually beneficial.
• A PR consultancy won’t cover up bad press; they are normally very honest and if something has gone wrong for their client, they will own up to it and carry out a damage limitation campaign.
To a lot of people, it’s a mysterious profession, but once you’re involved in a PR agency, you will see that they are not what they seem.