Here's how you can stand out from competitors as a PR entrepreneur.

As a PR entrepreneur, stand out by defining a unique value proposition and developing a strong brand identity with memorable visuals and unique brand tone and brand voice. Excel in content creation using tools like Grammarly and Canva, and build credibility with client testimonials and case studies. Maintain an innovative digital presence with Yoast SEO, Buffer, or Hootsuite, and position yourself as a thought leader using LinkedIn Pulse. Network strategically with LinkedIn Sales Navigator and offer personalized, customer-centric services using HubSpot or Salesforce. Continuously measure and adapt your strategies with Google Analytics and SEMrush to stay ahead. Using the right tools for the right outcome would certainly yield success.

Two quick tips. (1) I see a lot of PR brands that just aren't fun. I know folks don't work with agencies based on the "fun factor," but if they visit your website, which is often the front door of the brand, then need to be excited. Infuse some creativity. (2) On that website, you need to be concise. Some have too much info, and some too little. What problem are solving? What services do you offer? Why should they care? Start there.

While everyone thinks of "agencies" when they think of PR entrepreneurs, there are all sorts of other possibilities that you can explore. Perhaps there is a product in the PR vertical you can create? Go through the "start-up" world, with customer discovery, user feedback, etc, and you may come across some interesting ideas and opportunities!

There are a variety of technologies that can help improve PR outputs. From tracking to pitching to placing...you need to evaluate what might work best for you (and if you can afford to use them). But AI is also starting to impact the PR space. Understanding how you can use these new AI tools (versus what's just AI washing), might help accelerate or automate certain activities. Don't be afraid to dive in and try these new tools.

Networking should be symbiotic. So often it's just a one-way relationship (someone trying to get something). To truly be a good networker, you need to focus on helping others, not on what you can get out of the situation. I have a good friend who's very successful in business. And he always ends every conversation with "Now, how can I help you today?" It's a great way to leave the other person feeling supported. How you help someone else depends on the situation. It could be educational, it could be facilitating a connection, it could be advice, etc. Lean in to giving not taking.

Quick tip, success stories need to be short, concise, and digestible. No prospect wants to read 400+ words. Quick into, quick situational analysis and strategy, quick tactical execution, BIG call out of results. (And find a format that looks good....please.)

PR folks are often terrible at promoting themselves (guilty as charged). Pro tip – treat yourself like a client. Dedicate recurring time each week. Put yourself out there.

Spend time thinking about your ideal client, and demonstrate authority inside of the channels that resonate with them. Everyone thinks of LinkedIn for B2B thought leadership, but diversify! Especially if you're selling to B2C brands.

Personalization isn't just an expectation in today's business to consumer landscape - it's a vital component of B2B. Prospective clients don't want to receive a copy and paste new business proposal or pitch. One easy way to include a personal touch is to have team members share what they admire about the prospective client's business or why they're excited to work with them. Also, draw personal connections where you can - it could be as simple as striking up a conversation about living in the same city or bonding over love for pets. The people behind the work are just as important as the work (and sometimes it's exactly what tips the scale in your favor)!

PR is one of the most stressful jobs in America, and we have very little time to promote ourselves. Especially freelance PR pros, or PR entrepreneurs. Treat yourself like a client. If you have career or even appropriate personal news, post it on social channels. Clients and prospects love your humanity. Have new service offerings? Send an email to your current clients. Post about it on LinkedIn. Make a one-pager to send to any warm leads you have in the pipeline. Lastly, share your thoughts. Read an article and have an alternative view? Write a blog post. Send your thoughts to the journalist. Share best practices on LinkedIn and leverage hashtags. Spend 30 min a day on your own PR, and you’ll start to stand out.

Define the conversations your client needs to be a part of. Then inspire their audiences with commercial insights supported by data and research. Amplify a character narrative as well.