5 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Potential Public Relations Firms

1. 5 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Potential Public Relations Firms · · How will we usually communicate? Communication is one of the most important aspects in any relationship. Your relationship with Public relation Professionals is no exception. Some people prefer to have everything documented in email. Others prefer to instant message. Some people are happy with phone calls while others would rather have a video chat or meet in person. Regardless how you prefer to share information and stay in touch, make sure you and any prospective Public Relations Firms are on the same page. · · What can you give me for my current budget? Being very upfront about your budget from the beginning is important. Arguably, cash flow and marketing are two of the most important aspects in the overall success of your business. If you are caught off guard by additional charges or later find you need to add services that are not covered under your current arrangement, it can have a negative impact on your

2. business in the long run. Make sure they know what you can spend, and you know exactly what is, and is not, included in that amount. · · Do you think I have the right overall marketing plan? The reason you are considering Public Relations Firms is for their expertise and advice. You want to know they are truly listening and understanding your business. This means they may have to tell you that you’re not on the right track. If they simply replay back to you what you’ve asked for, this may not be the firm for you. However, be prepared for them to charge advising fees if you want a detailed recommendation. · What clients have you represented that are like my company or brand? Experienced Public Relation Professionals should only be interested in taking on your business if they are confident they have the ability to represent you well. The best way for them to be certain of this is to have represented companies or individuals in similar industries or with other similar attributes. In answering this question, they should provide you with a few specific examples. Considering the examples they provide will give you insight into whether or not they truly understand the nature of your business and how you want it represented. · · Can I have references? If they have happy clients, they should have no problem producing references for you to speak with. You should specifically ask for references from companies that are similar to yours or had similar PR needs. When you call references, you will also be able to ask them some of the same questions you asked the Public Relations Firm or professional, further ensuring you are making the right choice.

3. These are far from the only questions you should ask of potential Public Relations Firms. However, they are questions that may not be obvious but, are likely to shed additional light on any Prospective Public Relation Professionals. Hiring the right firm is very important to the success of your brand and business. One way to ensure you feel confident in your choice and to differentiate how Public Relations Firms will differ from one another is to ask these questions and more!