Creating a buzz around your business doesn’t require years of planning. In fact, there are some straightforward tactics that can help garner local publicity without spending thousands. With a little elbow grease and some grassroots efforts, your business can earn some much-deserved time in the spotlight. Here are three tactics worth considering for your public relations strategy:

Provide Expert Advice
When it comes time for the average consumer to purchase a product or service, there are inevitably countless options and opinions on what is best. Instead of sitting back and hoping the buyers choose you, take a proactive approach by offering expert advice within your community. Depending on the seasonality or trendiness of a topic, you can provide information to local newspapers and TV stations. Invite journalists to interview you or offer to write a guest column for a publication. As a credible, local source, people will be interested in what you have to say. Don’t forget to request an author byline that includes your website URL, so consumers can learn more about you and your business. And of course, make sure you promote any coverage on your social media channels!

Make a Charitable Contribution
Take a stroll downtown and you are sure to run across local charities that are making a big difference in your community. Consider supporting one of these non-profits next time you do a marketing push for a product or service. As part of a local promotion, consider donating a portion of the proceeds you make over a defined period of time or deliver a “prize” to a charitable organization if a certain goal is reached. People value the opportunity to contribute to a greater good, and if they are already in the market for what you’re offering, then it’s a win-win! Find an organization that is ready and willing to help increase awareness about your promotion. Social media can be a powerful tool to help spread the word and earn followers, and you can also send out a press release to local media outlets to generate additional publicity. Lastly, be sure to share it with your current customers via email newsletter and your website.

Create an Infographic
If graphic design is a skillset you have in-house, consider creating an infographic that presents data, a process or a trend that is relevant to your business. A picture is worth a thousand words, and it can go a long way in communicating why people should be engaged about an issue or how your business helps solve a problem. Make certain that you share your infographic online with friends and followers. Post it on your website, share it on social media (maybe even consider using it as part of an advertisement) and even consider sending it out via an email newsletter. People respond favorable to engaging photos, so the more you share it and talk about it, the more people will notice. Encourage people to share your information on social media and link back to the infographic on your website. It’s a great way to get new eyes on your brand while demonstrating your expertise in a unique way.

Each of these ideas is scalable and customizable for businesses of all sizes. Sit down with your team to brainstorm ideas and gather feedback on what makes sense for your business. Most of all, don’t be afraid to promote what it is you are offering and invite others to do the same. You might just be surprised at the positive response you receive.

Written by Maggie Hodges, Marketing Strategist.

Back