By Meghan Ely, OFD Consulting
As small business owners, we know better than most the importance of each hour of every day. Client meetings and paperwork take up most of our time and the addition of public relations can get easily pushed to the side. The good news, with some organization and the use of clever tools, you can incorporate PR into your workflow without too much trouble.
With that, let’s take a look at some of my best tips for adding a little PR to your business:
Block Scheduling
Workdays can feel like they start and end in the blink of an eye, so blocking off certain times in the day for particular tasks is a simple and effective way to make sure certain things get done. Instead of just putting PR on a checklist, set an appointment with yourself like you’re meeting with a client to make sure you turn off all other distractions. Use that time to focus on the objectives you’ve set for yourself for that day, and you’ll have no problem getting those pitches out and your submissions in.
Use Apps and Tools
There are countless apps and resources that can be used to help streamline public relations and make your life as a business owner easier. Some of my favorites include:
- Talkwalker Alerts: If you know you’ve got a feature coming out and no time to keep checking the website over and over again, Talkwalker Alerts will let you know when it has gone live and send you an email. That way, you can promote it ASAP!
- Wufoo: Having feedback from your clients that you can use in your company PR plan is essential. Wufoo is a simple questionnaire builder that can be sent to clients as a link. It’s super easy for them, and will give you invaluable information.
- HARO: This free tool is not just a time saver for you, but will quickly become a lifesaver. Most business owners would agree that there is not time to be constantly scouring the internet for press leads and opportunities. HARO will send you an email three times a day, full of reporters and editors looking for expert commentary on a plethora of topics. Find the one that fits you best and simply shoot them an email with your insight.
Delegate, Delegate, Delegate
No matter how hard we try, sometimes we just don’t have enough time to get everything done. Instead of letting your business’ PR plan get put on the back burner, get other team members in on it. Take note of your team members’ talents and use it to your business’ advantage. From graphic design to article writing, their help can absolutely save you both time and sanity.
By taking these tips and tricks and applying them to your daily business, you’ll have a strong and sustainable PR program before you know it.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
