As we enter the final quarter of 2024, many businesses are beginning to plan and agree their 2025 budgets and strategies. For some companies, this might mean a review of current strategies, as well as any external providers and partners.
With PR and marketing now a key part of many business growth plans, choosing the right PR agency to help fulfil objectives is crucial for success. But for businesses looking to go through the process, what traits should be prioritised?
In this blog, our Marketing Director Jade Hush draws on her experience as Marketing Manager at a global telecoms equipment vendor to outline the key qualities to look for in your next PR and digital marketing agency.
Comprehensive expertise
As the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Collaborating with an agency that understands your products and your industry can make a significant difference as they know what tools and tactics are most effective for your sector’s audience, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. When an agency already has a strong foundational understanding of your business, solutions, and the industry, you won't waste valuable time explaining every single detail. This improves efficiency and means the focus can be on the higher-level strategy and delivering results.
Strategic alignment
A reputable PR agency should take the time to fully understand your business objectives and develop strategies that align with your mission, vision and growth plans. This ensures efforts are focused for optimal results. If your agency isn’t asking the right questions or getting to the heart of your goals from the offset, they won’t be able to deliver the results you are aiming for.
Proactive approach
The right agency integrates seamlessly into your operations to become an extension of your team, adding value through expert insights, new opportunities, and forward-thinking strategies.
Amplified reach
An extensive network is one of the greatest assets a PR agency can bring. By leveraging existing relationships with media and industry connections, a good PR agency will amplify your business’ reach to deliver your messages to the right audience at the right time, driving engagement and growth.
Clear communication channels
Effective communication is essential for any successful working relationship – internally or externally. A good agency enables transparent and open communication, respecting your workload and preferred communication methods. Whether through regular calls, emails, or project management tools like Slack or Trello, clear communication ensures streamlined processes that make your day-to-day job easier.
Transparency in costs and approach
Transparency and clarity is crucial when working with any external partner. The best PR agencies are upfront about their pricing, offering a clear breakdown of costs. Some agencies still charge by the hour, while others – like Proactive PR – calculate cost according to deliverables. Whichever model an agency uses, it is important that your agency commits to a regular, predictable fee agreement. This allows you to see exactly what you’re getting for your investment, avoiding unexpected costs or hidden fees.
Variety and adaptability
The ability to pivot and adapt is essential as PR and marketing strategies are constantly evolving, with priorities changing and new tools and channels emerging all the time. The agency you choose should offer a diverse range of services, from traditional PR to social media management, sponsored campaigns, paid search, podcasts, and video production. They should also be agile enough to adjust the strategy and tactics as your business and the industry evolves.
As a leading B2B tech PR and marketing agency, currently shortlisted for a PRCA award in the Specialist Consultancy of the Year category, Proactive PR specialises in working with telecommunications and satellite clients. We have an exhaustive network of connections within the media and industry, a deep understanding of industry developments, and the skills to deliver impactful communications using a variety of tactics. Our experienced team members immerse themselves in our clients' brands, working as an extension of their team, building genuine relationships, and delivering exceptional results. Reach out today to find out how we can help you take your PR and marketing efforts to the next level by booking a meeting with our Marketing Director Jade Hush or emailing Jade at jade.hush@proactive-pr.com
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