4 Tips for Sparking a Grassroots PR campaign

Sparking a grassroots PR campaign can seem like a huge undertaking, and it can be, but it does not have to mean struggling; there is a difference between something being a big job and being a hard job, if you know what you're doing, you will find that this task requires dedication, persistence, and creativity.

Grassroots PR for any PR type means getting your hands dirty but especially for franchise PR because it is being done for the little guys (usually).

So what are some things that you should know for your next grassroots campaign?

The first thing to know is that you are not raising an issue but rather are telling a story. People like to hear stories because it gives them to listen to or read and establish a connection. When you tell a story, you are trying to build that emotional connection with your audience; that emotional connection means having more loyalty and a solid connection. You want that ethos and pathos (credibility and feelings) to happen between you and your audience.

The second thing you will want to do is to reward your supporters. Why is this important? Well, if you do not reward the people who are giving you their time, effort, and money, then you will run out of people who give you their time, effort, or money. If people are offering up their services or whatever, then you show them that you are grateful for that. Don't forget that even a simple "thank you" will do wonders.

The third thing you need to do is make sure your message is heard. As an employee of a franchise PR agency, then you will have tools in your arsenal that help you get your message heard. You will have press releases, the media, signs, social media, and people. People are one of the most potent tools you will have to amplify your message. Have people go out and tell your story and get people to hear it; people tend to listen to someone standing in front of them more than any TV, sign, or whatever. Another important you will want to use is social media.

The fourth thing ties into the second point, empower your supporters. Develop brand volunteers, give them their time and space to tell the story to people, meet people, and build that ever so important connection with them.

So next time you try a grassroots effort, make sure you get your team together and make sure they know they are valued.