NAVIGATING THE PR GAME

Hey there, fellow entrepreneurs! It's Kelly B and Kelly M again, small business owners, restaurateurs, and hosts of the podcast, Getting Real with BOSSY. Today, we want to talk about PR and what it means to your small business

So, you've poured your heart and soul into your business venture, whether it's a cozy café, a hip boutique, or a cutting-edge marketing firm. Have you thought about the importance of PR? If not, listen up because we're about to tell you why it's a game-changer for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

Let's start with the basics.

What the heck is PR anyway? Think of it as your restaurant's reputation manager, cheerleader, and storyteller all rolled into one. PR, aka Public Relations, covers everything from how you interact with customers and the media to managing your online presence and handling any sticky situations that pop up.

Picture this: you've just launched a game-changing product that's going to revolutionize your industry. You just created a Vegan menu that is out of this world! You are introducing an inclusive pricing system at your salon. PR helps spread the word far and wide, whether it's through press releases, social media buzz, or partnering with influencers who can't wait to sing your praises. It's all about creating a buzz and getting people excited about what you have to offer.

Why should you care about PR?

Imagine saving up money for years, waiting patiently for the perfect location to become available, planning your opening, and getting tucked away in a sea of competition. Without PR, you can be invisible to potential customers. It's no longer possible to reach everyone with basic marketing and organic growth.

Good PR helps build trust and credibility, showing folks that you're not just another faceless corporation but a brand worth rooting for. It puts you in the spotlight, attracting new clients and turning your loyal fans into zombies. Yes, ZOMBIES, Zombies love your business so much that they infect their people and turn them into loyal customers too. Do yourself a favor and get the book Zombie Loyalists by Peter Shankman-a must for every business owner!

How do you get the most bang for your PR buck?

Start by defining your brand identity and crafting a story that sets you apart from the crowd. Whether you're all about sustainability, innovation, or good old-fashioned customer service, own it and let it shine through in everything you do.

Next, engage with your community both online and off. That means responding to customer inquiries as fast as possible, participating in local events, and showing support for other businesses in your area. Building genuine connections goes a long way in boosting your brand's reputation and fostering loyalty among your audience.

But let's face it:

Sometimes things don't go according to plan, and you find yourself in the midst of a PR nightmare. Maybe a product didn't work, an event went horribly wrong, or a disgruntled customer took to social media to air their grievances. Don't panic! This is your chance to show what you're made of and turn things around.

First, take a deep breath and resist the urge to go into hiding. Instead. address the issue head-on, hold yourself accountable, apologize if necessary, and take quick action to make things right. Utilize Restorative Practices when necessary (check out our previous blog for more information). Whether it's offering a refund, a replacement, or simply listening to feedback, showing that you care goes a long way in winning back trust and goodwill.

Also, don't forget about damage control online. Respond to negative reviews with professionalism and empathy, and consider reaching out privately to resolve any issues offline. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to show the world what your business is all about. An opportunity to create another zombie.

In 30+ years of combined business ownership

Kelly and I have learned many lessons about how to handle PR, sometimes the hard way. We have both found that being honest and transparent is often the best way to overcome negative situations and turn some naysayers into new regulars. People want to know that you are a real person, not a robot, not an absentee owner, but a real person in the community trying to make a living and support a family. We are happy to talk more about it anytime and invite you to one of our workshops. Get in touch at bossyroc@gmail.com for more information.

So, there you have it, fellow entrepreneurs. PR may not be the flashiest or most fun part of running a business, but it's essential for your success. With the right strategy and a lot of positivity, you'll be well on your way to making headlines, for all the right reasons! Now, go forth and conquer the business world, one PR win at a time!

Stay bold,

Kelly & Kelly