Subtle PR Tactics That Have An Impact

In public relations, it's all about telling your story to create awareness and generate goodwill. We're all familiar with the classic public relations moves like the press release and the press conference. But here are some affordable and less traditional public relations ideas that can increase awareness of your business or non-profit while generating goodwill as well.

Ghost Writing

You or one of your staff members can become a regularly published author--- even if you are not an accomplished writer. Let someone else writes the majority of the article and you get the credit. It happens all the time and usually, in advertising, there is no ghostwriting credit given. Your spokesperson and/or your organization reap the subsequent goodwill and publicity with a fraction of the work.

Adopting a Highway/Directional Signage

The South Carolina Department of Transportation offers a variety of opportunities for you and your organization to gain name recognition The Adopt-A-Highway program is an excellent method of obtaining roadside signage for your business or non-profit while also doing something good for your community and state. Also, historic buildings, schools, and other locations are possible candidates for state-provided directional signage. Write or call your local SCDOT office today to learn if your business or non-profit could benefit from this service. And don't forget to take advantage of what's already there. If the sign to your city's downtown reads "Historic Downtown", then take advantage of it in your communications. Make sure you work in "located in historic downtown…(your town here)."

Awards

Be more intentional about nominating your employees and your organization for awards. It's another powerful public relations technique that nets free and positive publicity. When your business or employee wins an award, it's an immediate talking point for your business. And, best of all, this point will likely be spread far and wide by other media.

Community Sponsorships

While large event or arena sponsorships (a/k/a naming rights partnerships) makes sure your brand is broadcast far and wide, don't overlook the importance of smaller sponsorships as well! It's possible that you still remember the business that sponsored your (or your child's) little league team. That one jersey presence says you care about the town and care about kids. There are plenty of warm fuzzies to go around for other small sponsorships with large payoffs, like neighborhood parks, parades, food drives, blood drives, and barbecue cook-offs. It matters to your customers that their community matters to you.