2013 and PR Resolutions

At the close of each year everyone goes around asking one another, “What’s your resolution for this upcoming year?”  It’s unavoidable, people will ask, but what will you tell them?  As a franchise public relations firm we have suggested to clients that they should come up with a list of resolutions solely for their marketing and PR for 2013.  We aren’t suggesting that just our clients make PR resolutions, but really all PR professionals should be doing the same.  Coming up with a list of resolutions for your business, franchise or public relations firm could be a great way to start the new year off right.  Not sure what your resolutions should be?  Here are a few of our ideas:

1- Take the time to read more: We’re all extremely busy these days, there’s no doubt about it, but try and take a little time out of your busy schedule on a daily basis to read more.  If you’re a business or franchise owner, take the time to read some franchise related stories and industry publications.  Industry related publications and even blogs are great places to start.  If you’re a public relations expert stay sharp by reading newspapers, magazines, industry publications, novels, blogs and really, anything you can get your hands on.  In the public relations industry it is important to be on top of your game at all times and reading will help stimulate your mind and help you form new connections.  Get reading in 2013-- No excuses!

2- Learn a little SEO: If you're not familiar with search engine optimization then we suggest you take notice.  Having the maximum amount of search engine exposure should be one of your top goals for 2013.  Who doesn't want to come up first in a search on Google?  We're sure everyone does, so take some time and learn the SEO basics.  If it seems out of reach for you to do it on your own, then call in the SEO experts.

3- Do all the things you have been putting off doing: We all have our list of things we put off doing until the last minute or the things we just never get to.  Let go of your list of things you have yet to do this year and get it done. Perhaps you're a franchise public relations agency in need of a website update or a franchise owner looking to increase your public relations services.  Stop putting it off and take a little time at the beginning of this new year to get all of those things identified on your list ironed out.

4- Prepare yourself for the worst: Think about all the things you have been so afraid might happen and take some time to get prepared.  Preparing for the worst is a big part of franchise public relations and really, public relations in general.  Put down some of your worries on paper and write down some PR strategies in case a crisis happens to strike.  Once you're finished, put your list of worries away and feel safe knowing that you have identified some great PR strategies to rely on in case a crisis comes up.

5- Be a solid contributor:  Whether you’re a franchise owner or a public relations expert try your hardest to be a solid contributor this year.  Find a way to put your professional skills to good use this year.  You could publicize a local event, design flyers for a nearby school, or do some writing for a local charity.  Not only will it make you feel great to contribute in a big way, but it will make others take notice.  A win win situation if you ask us.

Looking for more ideas on making PR resolutions for 2013?  Feel free to comment below or contact us.