Date: 26 April 2024
Author: FINTECH Circle

In today’s competitive business landscape, effective public relations (PR) strategies can make all difference for startups striving to gain visibility, investors & establish credibility.

To shed light on this crucial aspect of entrepreneurial success, industry experts Kimberley Waldron and Peter Ibbetson recently shared invaluable insights during a virtual discussion moderated by Susanne Chishti.

The Power of Patience and Realism:

Peter Ibbetson emphasised the importance of patience when it comes to PR efforts. He highlighted that building brand recognition and capturing journalists’ attention takes time. Startups should stick with their PR initiatives for at least three to six months to see tangible results. Realism is also crucial; understanding that PR is just one component of the marketing mix helps manage expectations effectively.

Crafting Compelling Headlines:

A captivating headline can significantly enhance a startup’s visibility. Peter Ibbetson stressed the importance of creating headlines with a unique angle to grab journalists’ attention. For example, rather than “Dog Bites Man,” opt for “Man Bites Dog” to make the story more intriguing and newsworthy. Including relevant keywords such as “Fintech” can also increase visibility, especially in targeted searches.

Utilising Multiple Channels:

Kimberley Waldron highlighted the significance of utilising various channels for PR outreach. While traditional media remains important, social media platforms like LinkedIn play an increasingly vital role in connecting with journalists and industry professionals. Startups should actively engage with journalists on LinkedIn & share content to expand their reach.

The Start-Up PR Program:

Kimberley introduced the concept of a startup PR program designed to provide startups with structured PR support. This program offers guaranteed outcomes, including media placements, one-on-one sessions with PR experts, and strategic networking opportunities. By participating in such programs, startups can streamline their PR efforts and maximise their chances of success.

Timing is Key:

When to start promoting a startup ahead of a fundraising round is a common question among entrepreneurs. Both Kimberley and Peter advised startups to begin their PR activities as early as possible. Ideally, startups should give themselves at least six months before a fundraising round to build brand value, establish credibility, and attract investor interest effectively.

The Intersection of Social Media and PR:

While PR and social media serve distinct purposes, they complement each other seamlessly. Startups should leverage social media platforms to amplify their PR efforts and engage with their target audience directly. Sharing press coverage on social media channels can further enhance a startup’s credibility and visibility.

Closing Thoughts:

Mastering PR is an essential aspect of startup growth and success. By implementing strategic PR initiatives, startups can enhance their brand visibility, attract investors, and establish themselves as industry leaders. The insights shared by Kimberley Waldron & Peter Ibbetson offer valuable guidance for startups looking for complex world of PR effectively.

In conclusion, startups should embrace PR as a powerful tool for achieving their business goals. With patience, creativity, and a strategic approach, startups can leverage PR to elevate their brand and propel their growth journey forward.

Overall, the webinar provided valuable insights & practical tips for startups looking to navigate complex landscape of PR & establish strong foothold in their respective industries.