PR 101: Playing the Long Game

There are two ways to develop a good public relations strategy. One is to be totally authentic. The second, and likely most important way, is to play the long game. In the world of branding, there are so many moving parts that make the engine go. Playing the long game is important to create lasting success in any field. Here we’ll discuss 5 PR tips that will help you create your long-term PR strategy.

Building Positive Relationships

Any functioning business involves the business of people. Relationships are the new currency. Building solid ties with others in your field—and even with others outside of your industry—can help to keep your brand’s face fresh on the minds of those who may need or want your services. Genuine referrals and word-of-mouth mentions can happen through these types of connections. It’s best to cultivate and nourish these. 

Media Relations  

Speaking of relationships, let’s get a bit more specific. Media relations involve connections with the press. These are also very important because they keep the pendulum of your reputation balanced. All press is not good press, and the media has a pretty strong hold on the information getting around. They are essentially the gatekeepers for how a brand’s image is portrayed. Maintaining cordial relationships with the media can keep your brand in good standing so that you can continue to cater to your audience.

Consistent Brand Strategy and Messaging

A branding strategy is not good if the moving parts aren’t consistent over time. Developing consistency throughout anything that carries a reflection of your brand’s voice (i.e. case studies, blogs, industry news, events, digital campaigns, etc.) is what helps to establish loyalty from your audience. If they are going to keep getting to know you and what you have to offer, they must know that your mission and values are steady and constant. 

Consistent Social Media Presence

Consider this truth: social media is likely here to stay. The digital revolution has given us countless new channels to use our voices and express our views. Much of your audience already participates on major networking social channels. This should not be left out of your PR strategic planning. Building a consistent, active presence online will ensure that your business stays relevant and in the forefront. 

Crisis Management 

The best way to avoid a crisis is to prevent it. Over time, your business needs and demands will change. It’s best to make sure your emergency solutions are changing with it. Having the right PR tactic in place for the right time will set your brand apart from those who are forced to react instead of respond to dire situations. 

Many of the facets involved with playing the long game are probably things that already come naturally to any brand which has spent time making strategic plans for their public relations department. The key is to adopt these strategies and implement them in the long run. It’s a surefire way to guarantee that your brand will thrive for many years to come. The Forum offers many services to help brands create reliable PR strategies. Learn more about them here.