How to Find a Good Publicist

Get the results you really need for your small business

Recently, I talked to several entrepreneurs who were “ripped off” by large agencies. They were promised big results and ended up wasting time and money.

Has this happened to you?

If so, here are a few tips to help you find good, PR people who will actually produce results.

3 Tips to Find a Good Publicist

1. Avoid too-good-to-be-true promises.

In the world of public relations, it’s impossible to guarantee a media-placement, unless you are writing and posting the article on your own site.

Final placement is always under the control of the editor, producer or other executive… so if someone promises you big, media-placements, run away!

2. Check credentials.

Almost all good publicists belong to the Public Relations Society of America and/or other, credible organizations for communication professionals.

Before hiring anyone, do your due diligence. Research the person you want to hire. Check credentials, references, experience, samples, and more. Ask your friends for referrals.

This way, you know you’ll be hiring someone who has experience. Plus, you can always report any wrong-doing to the appropriate organization/association if your new-hire tries to rip you off.

3. Start with a test project.

If possible, start with a test project to see how your new publicist does and how that person fits in with your team.

This is a good way to tell if you will work well together and if that person has the skills you are looking for.

If it’s better to start with a monthly retainer-fee, be sure to have an “out” in your contract if things don’t go well.

Don’t Get Ripped Off – Get Results Instead!

I know you’re busy, and it takes time to find the right people to help you with your PR needs. It can be easy to hire the first referral you get or just go to the best agency around.

But don’t do it! You could end up wasting a lot of time, money and effort!

Instead, research the appropriate professionals, check credentials and conduct a test-project.

This way, you’ll find the right person to help you reach your specific goals and actually get results!

Could your business use some good publicity right now?

For additional help with your BtoB SEO content strategy and public relations’ needs, please visit www.rembrandtwrites.com.

By Melanie Rembrandt of Rembrandt Communications,® LLC

Melanie is a BtoB SEO content strategist and publicist who helps businesses boost sales, awareness and credibility quickly. For free tips and more information, visit www.rembrandtwrites.com.