7 Ways To Make PR Work For Your Event


Skift Take

Most event planners know that PR pros write press releases, but you might be surprised to learn they do a lot more.

There are a host of services that a PR firm can provide for your event. Some are basic, like writing and circulating press releases, others more strategic. PR firms are alo essential as a go-to for damage control.

If you’ve been thinking about using a PR firm to get the word out, here are a few of the services they provide:

1. Media Relations

A PR firm can write press releases and make sure they are circulated on not only the major and local news outlets, (assuming that sort of coverage fits your event) but also to the trade and industry sites, or niche groups that may have interest in your event. They also bring with them media relationships that would take you years to cultivate and can personally reach out about your event.

2. Content Marketing

Many PR firms have crossed over in providing content marketing because being able to establish yourself, your cause, or your organization as the top in your field, is largely a PR undertaking. Most PR firms now look at providing integrated marketing communications on all levels. Content marketing falls under their expertise in trying to help you get exposure in the places that will mean more event ticket sales.

3. Crisis Management

If a tragedy, natural disaster, or security issue occurs at your event, having a PR firm on board can mitigate parts of that terrible occurrence. Their work won’t negate the tragedy but their skills can help you assess the situation and minimize the damage to your event brand in the media.

4. Testimonials/Reviews

While testimonials and reviews are widely successful in getting people interested in your event, it’s hard to set aside the time to make the request.  A PR person can do all of that for you as well as put a strategy in place to secure more of them going forward so you won’t need to worry about getting testimonials at the last minute.

5. Social Media Management

Many PR firms have crossed over into digital media and marketing. A PR firm can help you with your posting strategy, including tailoring your messages by the type of channel you’re using. Most planners don’t have the time to even think about that, let alone do it. Also, because you are sharing the costs of a social media team with other clients of the PR firm, it’s often less expensive to hire a firm than a person to work directly for you on expanding your reach.

6. Speaker Press

If you have a well-known speaker coming in for your event, a PR firm can help you share that information with the media. They may be able to arrange interviews, or create media releases or social media that gets a lot of buzz. 

 7. On-site Event Promotion

A PR firm can also capture the mood at the event, write articles from the show floor, work with the media to give them an inside look, and handle the day-of social media. There is plenty of excitement going on at your event. Having a media relations expert on hand can help you make the most of it and expand your reach.