5 Tips for Getting Free PR

How hard is it to get PR for your business?

It's not just the costs involved in getting your name out there. Journalists around the world have their inboxes filled with press releases for events, products, and services that it's easy for your news to get lost in the shuffle.

So what do you do?

Fortunately, there are other ways to promote your business. In fact, there are even ways to get free PR that can help get your company in front of the eyes of your preferred customer. Just make sure to follow these tips.

How to get free PR

1. Promote Your Social Mission

Doing good can be the best free PR as long as it's authentic. Start by deciding what you stand for. It might be climate change or another social justice initiative. It doesn't necessarily need to link to your brand, but it should be something you're passionate about while also resonating with the general public.

It's also a good idea to partner with some local charities or initiatives. Joining forces with another organisation can help get your business attention while also improving your chances of succeeding in your social mission.

2. Jump on Trends and Stories

If you're on social media or follow the news, it won't take long to come across a massive story in your industry or the most recent hottest trend. While it's essential to stay informed with the latest developments in your industry, these events can present an opportunity for free PR.

Journalists will often seek out experts in the field for data or commentary when covering one of these trends. Try reaching out to local reporters to provide your unique insight. If you can collaborate on the right angle, it will significantly benefit your business.

3. Keep it Local

It's normal to have grand aspirations for your business. However, before you can join the big leagues, you should start by making an impact in your hometown.

Get to know your local bloggers, influencers and journalists. You want to be the first person in mind when they need to reach out to a local business. If you can demonstrate your expertise, you'll be on speed dial anytime they need a comment. There's also a good chance that it will get picked up by more prominent outlets if there is enough buzz around the story.

4. Join Online Communities

A quick search online will uncover dozens of communities that are related to your brand. Facebook, Reddit, and even LinkedIn have ways to contribute to these groups by publishing articles and sharing insights.

The key to free PR is to be an active member of the community. It doesn't mean promoting your business at every opportunity. You want to add value by contributing to the conversation and offering meaningful comments to establish yourself within it. You can also utilise people's issues by creating content that shares how your business can help solve their problems.

5. Start a Podcast

These days, there is a podcast for everything. While true crime and comedy might top the charts, you can find shows that cover specific industry topics on everything from industrial equipment to e-commerce stores.

Starting a podcast doesn't require hiring out a studio. The most straightforward setup can be a laptop with a built-in microphone and Zoom. You can conduct interviews, discuss topics related to your field, or use it as a way to spread the word about upcoming promotions. There are even free platforms that allow you to upload your podcast to iTunes, Spotify and other places where people stream their shows.

How Important is Free PR?

PR is more than just creating a bunch of compelling content and releasing it out into the world. It's about actively engaging with communities and networking with journalists, media representatives, and local leaders who can help spread the word about what your business does.

You don't need to put money aside in your budget for press ventures. There are plenty of free PR opportunities out there if you're willing to put in the work and get your business in front of the right people.