Public relations professionals can be valuable allies for copywriters, as they can help you reach new audiences, generate media coverage, and enhance your credibility. But how do you build relationships with PR pros that are mutually beneficial and lasting? Here are some of the best ways to network and collaborate with public relations professionals.
Before you approach a PR professional, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you can offer. Do you want to pitch a story idea, get a quote, or ask for feedback? Do you have a unique perspective, a compelling case study, or a relevant expertise? Be specific and concise about your goals and value proposition, and tailor them to the PR professional's niche and audience.
Engage with Their Content: Regularly interact with their posts. For instance, if a PR professional shares a success story or industry insight, leave a thoughtful comment or share the post with your network. Publish Relevant Content: Share articles or insights relevant to PR. For example, post an article about emerging PR trends and tag professionals who might find it interesting. Participate in LinkedIn Groups: Join and actively participate in PR-related LinkedIn groups. Engage in discussions or offer solutions to problems raised by PR professionals. Networking Events and Webinars: Share and discuss insights from LinkedIn virtual networking events or webinars focused on PR.
Don't just send a generic email or message to a PR professional. Do your research and homework first. Find out what they do, what they write about, what they are interested in, and what they are looking for. Follow them on social media, read their articles or blogs, and comment on their posts. Show that you are familiar with their work and that you have something relevant and valuable to add.
PR professionals are busy people who receive dozens of pitches and requests every day. Don't waste their time or spam them with irrelevant or unsolicited messages. Be respectful and professional in your communication. Use a polite and friendly tone, address them by name, and thank them for their time and attention. Don't be pushy or demanding, but follow up politely and patiently if you don't hear back from them.
We are always happy to hear from you! I always appreciate a follow up note if it's been a few days. Just know we may be busy or out with clients and may not always be able to respond right away.
One of the best ways to build relationships with PR professionals is to provide value and support to them. Share their content, give them feedback, offer them insights, or introduce them to other relevant contacts. Show that you are not just looking for a favor, but that you are genuinely interested in their work and that you can help them achieve their goals. By providing value and support, you can establish trust and rapport with PR professionals.
Another way to build relationships with PR professionals is to collaborate and co-create with them. Invite them to join your projects, podcasts, webinars, or events. Ask them to contribute to your articles, newsletters, or ebooks. Propose joint ventures, partnerships, or campaigns. By collaborating and co-creating with PR professionals, you can showcase your skills, expand your network, and create win-win situations.
Finally, don't let your relationships with PR professionals fade away after one interaction. Maintain and nurture them over time. Keep in touch with them regularly, send them updates, congratulate them on their achievements, or ask them how they are doing. Show that you care about them as people, not just as sources or contacts. By maintaining and nurturing your relationships with PR professionals, you can build long-term loyalty and goodwill.