Why do we find it so hard to showcase the value of PR beyond our own networked bubble? Why are PR people so bad at their own PR?
I know I’m generalising, but when was the last time you read about the £16.7bn[i] PR industry in the national media? On a quick Google search, the PR industry hits the headlines either because of large scale acquisitions & mergers or when agencies are called out for their questionable client portfolios.
When I first started in the industry a few decades ago I thought this was because it wasn’t well known and was establishing itself as a profession. But right now, I think there are no excuses we just aren’t shouting loudly or enough to make ourselves heard.
Awards season always strikes me as a time when we can actually use our work to do the talking. The recent PRCA DARE awards in the region saw winners’ campaigns span care homes to toy manufacturers and luxury hotels, and it was a joy to see the great and good gathered in the room to stop and celebrate each other. We need to carry on this momentum. And we’re starting in this newsletter edition with a quick run-down of some of the winners.
Our industry is constantly evolving from the scope of work we deliver, new media formats and rising AI-infused PR. We have also become more cognizant of the importance of health and mental wellbeing as an industry and the impact it has of employee productivity, motivation and overall happiness. As such, I believe the opportunities for the next generation to have an exciting and fulfilling career within PR is better than ever. But this isn’t going to happen if we don’t raise awareness that we are here, succeeding, growing and delivering a service that makes a real, tangible difference.
I appreciate that the primary blocker for many is time and that we are busy delivering PR for those that are paying the bills, but I promise you the rewards of giving your business or agency the same attention will far outweigh the investment of time in the long run.