What Does a Public Relations Specialist Do?

In recent years, we have seen a boom in businesses globally. While some were heavily affected by recent economic struggles, many used the opportunity to begin their businesses by launching new products and services to the market.

To resonate their messages with the public, businesses need a bridge to connect with their target audience. This is where public relations specialists come into play. So what does a public relations specialist do? Why are they so valuable in a company or organization?
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In the past, public relations were primarily concerned with managing a company's public image, but today it encompasses much more - it now uses a multiple of assets and channels to communicate with a larger audience.​

Likewise, the way people interact has changed over time, reckoning the need for experts to understand how to communicate with stakeholders, customers, and the public effectively.

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Key Responsibilities of a Public Relations Specialist
Primarily, public relations specialists connect an organization or a business to their target audience. Here is a list of the primary duties and responsibilities of a PR specialist:

1. Developing and executing public relations plans. This includes identifying important stakeholders, setting objectives, and formulating strategies and tactics to reach those objectives. Typically, a public relations strategy involves multiple media channels, such as print, radio, or digital.
2. Writing press releases, articles, and other promotional materials. Press releases are documents that announce a story or event to the media. Public relations specialists must have an excellent command of English to write compelling copy that the press can pick up. Additionally, PR specialists may need to develop other promotional materials, such as media advisories, brochures, or newsletters.
3. Creating campaigns to promote a company or product. This task aims to generate interest in the company or its products and services. This involves identifying target audiences, planning events, and creating digital content to capture their attention.
4. Conducting media outreach activities. PR specialists must be able to identify and contact the right people in the media who can give their organization more visibility. This involves pitching journalists, bloggers, and other influencers to secure interviews or stories about the company.
5. Monitoring news coverage and evaluating its impact on a company’s reputation. PR specialists must monitor their company's news stories and social media coverage to detect any negative press or potential issues that could harm the brand’s reputation. They also need to assess the impact of different communication tactics on the public perception of their organization.
6. Coordinating crisis management initiatives when needed. There are times when a company may face unexceptional situations that can put its reputation at risk. Public relations specialists must be able to respond quickly and effectively to protect the brand’s image.

The Advantages of Having a PR Specialist
Now that we know the functions and critical responsibilities of PR specialists, let’s take a look at some of the advantages of having someone dedicated to communicating with the public:

1. A PR specialist can help find and nurture relationships with key stakeholders and influencers in your industry.
2. They can craft strategies to communicate effectively with customers, potential buyers, investors, and the like.
3. They are better equipped to handle any crises that may arise.
4. They can help boost the company’s visibility through media relations and other efforts.
5. They are skilled at writing press releases and other promotional materials, which can attract more attention and generate positive press for the company.
6. A PR specialist can provide valuable insights into what content resonates with customers and the public.
7. They can help generate better results from marketing campaigns by understanding social media, digital trends, and other industry developments.

PR specialists are well-equipped to leverage the digital landscape to their advantage. Whether a small business or a large corporation, having someone dedicated to public relations can benefit your organization.

Why Hire a Public Relations Specialist?
Aside from the mentioned advantages, there are good reasons why you should get a PR specialist today, including:

1. Social Media Management. With the rise of social media, it's become increasingly important for companies to engage with users on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. A PR specialist can help create effective campaigns and promptly manage customer interactions.
2. Content Creation. PR specialists can be tasked with creating content such as blog posts or videos that are interesting to an audience. In addition, they can make a content calendar that outlines what content to produce and when.
3. Improved Communication. If you need help relaying your message to the public, a PR specialist can help. They are skilled in crafting compelling messages that communicate your brand message clearly and concisely.
4. Insightful Advice. A good PR specialist knows the ins and outs of the industry. They can provide helpful insights to improve your PR strategy and ensure that you stay ahead of trends.
5. Increased Visibility. A good PR specialist can drive more visibility for your company through press releases, interviews, and other outreach efforts. This can draw attention to your organization in a positive light.

Bottomline
A public relations specialist must ensure that your brand is portrayed in the best possible light. They can help craft strategies, manage social media accounts, and more. They can connect with customers, influencers, and other stakeholders meaningfully. Investing in a PR specialist can be one of the best decisions for your business.

At 5 Borough Communications, we understand the value of having a PR specialist on board. And we are happy to become the bridge of your organization or company to the public. So if you are contemplating improving your public relations, contact us, and we will get in touch.