Why PR is essential for growth
You might have heard that PR is “dead” or that you don’t need it to grow your business. But let’s get real - PR is far from obsolete. In fact, it’s the engine behind every brand that wants to be credible, trusted, and well-regarded by its audience.
Here’s why PR is not only relevant but absolutely essential if you’re serious about growing a business that makes a positive impact.
PR is about communication, not spin
When we talk about PR, we’re talking about communicating your brand’s story, products, and services in ways that truly resonate with your target audience. Think of PR as the bridge between what you offer and how the world sees it. For brands that aim to do good, PR becomes even more powerful - it helps people understand your values and see the difference you’re making.
A long proven history, and an evolving landscape
PR is nothing new. And it’s evolved over time from early newsletters and newspapers to digital media channels today. Traditionally, brands had two choices: pay for ads or get featured in the media. And while paying for ads says, “Look how fantastic we are,” media coverage tells a much more influential story because someone else - a trusted third party - is endorsing you.
Yes, social media has changed the game to some extent - but with owned media the message is still “Look how fantastic we are” - and the third party endorsers are not necessarily trusted. And the game stays the same: connecting with audiences through reliable, well-established channels.
The magic of third-party endorsement
Everyone loves a personal recommendation, right? PR takes that concept and scales it. When a journalist covers your brand, they’re effectively recommending it to their entire audience. For purpose-driven brands, this endorsement is even more impactful. Media outlets with loyal, trusted followings can amplify your mission and values, introducing your positive impact to thousands or even millions.
Earned attention beats paid space
One of the biggest misconceptions about PR? That it’s as simple as paying for coverage. PR is about earning that spotlight through strong storytelling and relevance. You have to show journalists that your brand is worth talking about and why their readers need to hear your message. And yes, that takes a bit of effort and a lot of strategy - but the impact is massive.
Why PR and social Media aren't the same thing
It’s true: social media allows you to communicate directly with your audience. But while social can build awareness, PR raises your profile on a much larger stage. The real magic happens when they work together - PR gets your brand in front of new audiences, while social media lets you nurture those relationships, amplify the coverage, and keep the conversation going. It’s a powerhouse combination.
Myth-Busting: PR isn’t out of reach for small brands
Some people think PR is out of their budget or something only huge companies can afford. Not true. Today, nano-agencies (like mine!) and independent consultants make it accessible to brands of all sizes. We work smart to deliver flexible, cost-effective solutions that get real results. Forget about the high-price, high-commitment agencies; PR is no longer reserved for brands with unlimited budgets.
The long game: building a brand that lasts
PR isn’t about quick wins. It’s a strategic, long-term investment that builds your brand’s reputation, attracts the right people, and fosters trust with your audience. For those out there who are working to make a difference, PR becomes a way to grow your mission sustainably, ensuring that your message of purpose, impact, and values reaches those who need to hear it.
If you’re ready to amplify your purpose-driven work and build a brand that genuinely makes a difference, let’s talk! Drop me a line to explore how we can create a PR strategy that doesn’t just support your business goals, but also helps you make a positive impact.