Wednesday, June 19, 2013

How to Start a Media and Public Relations Business

Media and Public Relations Business
Media and public relations firms are widely used by small and large businesses across various industries. From fashion designers and boutique owners to upscale restaurants and authors, media and public relations firms are hired to help spread positive news about their businesses, and attract the attention of their target markets and respective media outlets. They also work to keep negative press from damaging the brands they represent. "Entrepreneur" magazine's online portal suggests that start-up costs for a media and public relations firm could range from $2,000 to $10,000.

Step 1

Obtain skills necessary for running a successful media and public relations firm by securing a relevant education and experience. Coursework and experience in business writing, public and media relations, verbal communication, advertising and marketing are helpful. A degree is not required, but can help equip you with tools to effectively run your media and public relations business.

Step 2

Research the market to determine the future of careers in media and public relations services. Resources such as “The Occupational Outlook Handbook” provide in depth details on salaries, services, growth and trends. Investigate the local market you plan to serve to identify potential competitors and how your firm differs.

Step 3

Determine whether you want to operate your media and public relations firm from a home office or if you want to lease space. A small start up can easily be operated from home to reduce expenses.

Step 4

Decide which services you plan to provide clients. From writing press releases to creating media kits, public relations professionals offer a wide range of services, but not all firms are full-service. Determine whether you'll accept hourly payments, per project payments or operate on retainers where customers pay a fixed amount per month.

Step 5

Write a business plan for your media and public relations start up. Include information on how you will finance, manage and market the business. Your marketing plan should include ideas for attracting potential clients.

Step 6

Come up with a memorable name for your media and public relations business. Register the name with your state office as a legal entity. Register as a limited liability company to protect your personal assets and legal issues the business may face in the future.

Media and Public Relations BusinessStep 7

Purchase errors and omissions insurance from an agent to further protect your legal entity. This can protect you against clients who find an error in a press release and elect to sue you for the error.






Step 8

Work with a graphic and web designer to create visual representation for your business. Along with a logo, marketing collateral, including letterhead, business cards and brochures ,are essential. Develop an online presence by creating a website.

Step 9

Purchase office supplies, such as a desk, chairs, fax machine, computer and printer, as well as pens, pencils, notepads, computer paper, file folders and a filing cabinet for client files. Set up your office.

Step 10

Begin marketing your business to prospective clients based on the marketing plan you created.

Tip

  • Joining local business and professional associations are an ideal way to network with fellow business owners and potential clients.

About the Author

Miranda Brookins is a marketing professional who has over seven years of experience in copy-writing, direct-response and Web marketing, publications management and business communications. She has a bachelor's degree in business and marketing from Towson University and is working on a master's degree in publications design at University of Baltimore.


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