Powerful PR: Should You Go Pro or DIY?
Allow me to introduce you to a social media guru in the publishing industry—Aimee Ravichandran of Abundantly Social in Houston, Texas. I keep running into Aimee on social media and at book events she hosts online for authors—and I think it’s time you meet her, too. Understanding that authors are trying to stretch every single dollar, I asked Aimee to share her valuable insight with my authors to guide us in the decision-making process when it comes to social media marketing and public relations (PR).
Hello there, fabulous readers and authors! My name is Aimee, owner of Abundantly Social and host of podcast, Author Talk. In today's digital age, the power of public relations (PR) can’t be overstated. There are many ways to go about getting the exposure you want, and I’m happy to share the pros and cons of DIY PR versus professional PR.
Whether you're a startup entrepreneur, a new author, or an established brand, PR plays a crucial role in shaping your image and sharing your story with the world. However, the big question remains: Should you dive into the world of DIY PR, or should you hand over the reins to a professional PR agency? Let's explore the pros and cons of each approach to help you decide which path is the perfect fit for you!
DIY PR: The Hands-On Approach
Pros:
Cost-Effective: One of the biggest benefits of DIY PR is that it can be significantly cheaper than hiring a professional agency. You save on agency fees and can allocate your budget to other critical areas of publishing.
Personal Touch: Nobody knows your book better than you do. Handling PR yourself allows you to infuse your passion and personality into every press release, pitch, and social media post.
Flexibility: When you're in control, you can pivot your strategy quickly based on real-time feedback and evolving trends. You’re not bound by a contract or waiting on an agency’s timeline.
Skill Building: Managing your own PR can be a fantastic learning experience. You gain valuable skills in media relations, content creation, and brand management that can benefit your book sales in the long run.
Cons:
Time-Consuming: DIY PR can be a major time sink. Crafting the perfect pitch, building media lists, and managing relationships with journalists all require a significant time investment.
Steep Learning Curve: Navigating the PR landscape can be challenging, especially if you're new to it. Mistakes can happen, and they might cost you media opportunities or even damage your brand.
Limited Contacts: Established PR agencies come with a long list of media contacts. As a DIY-er, you probably lack the connections needed to get your story in front of the right people.
Potential for Inconsistency: Without a structured strategy, your PR efforts may become sporadic and disjointed, leading to an inconsistent brand message.
Professional PR: The Expert Route
Pros:
Expertise and Experience: Professional PR agencies come with a wealth of knowledge and experience. They understand the nuances of media relations, crisis management, and storytelling, ensuring your book is represented in the best light.
Established Relationships: Agencies have established relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers. This network can significantly boost your chances of securing media coverage.
Strategic Approach: PR professionals develop comprehensive strategies that align with your publishing goals. They know how to craft compelling narratives, target the right audiences, and measure the success of their campaigns.
Time-Saving: By outsourcing your PR, you free up your time to focus on other aspects of writing and publishing. The agency handles everything from press releases to media outreach, allowing you to stay productive.
Cons:
Cost: Hiring a professional PR agency can be expensive. The investment might be substantial, especially for small businesses or authors with limited budgets.
Less Control: When you hand over your PR to an agency, you might feel like you’re losing some control over your brand's voice and image. It’s crucial to find an agency that truly understands and respects your vision.
Finding the Right Fit: Not all PR agencies are created equal. It can take time to find one that aligns with your values, understands your industry, and delivers the results you’re looking for.
Long-Term Commitment: Many PR agencies require long-term contracts. If the partnership doesn’t work out as expected, you might find yourself locked into an agreement that’s difficult to exit.
So which choice is best?
In the end, the choice between DIY PR and professional PR comes down to your specific needs, resources, and goals. If you’re a budget-conscious go-getter with time to spare and a passion for storytelling, DIY PR might be your path to success. On the other hand, if you’re looking for expert guidance, established media connections, and a strategic approach, a professional PR agency could be for you.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Evaluate your options, consider your strengths and weaknesses, and choose the path that aligns best with your vision and objectives. If I can help you in your decision-making process, I’d be happy to tell you more about the author services we offer at Abundantly Social.
Whichever route you take, stay authentic, stay committed, and let your unique story shine through! Happy PR-ing!
Abundantly Social and Aimee Ravichandran
Abundantly Social has been named one of the Top Texas PR Firms by DesignRush. Learn more about their awards, recognitions, and the services Aimee offers to authors at Abundantly Social. Or contact Aimee directly to discuss your specific questions for social media marketing and PR options for your book.
Author Resources & Free Publishing Guide from Andria Flores
Hi! I’m Andria Flores—an editor who loves her clients! One perk I provide to my authors is exclusive access to my Author Resources page, filled with helpful downloads and links from me, as well as direct access to trusted colleagues and resources to assist you through the entire publishing process. You'll find Abundantly Social there, too! To gain access, subscribe to my newsletter. You'll immediately receive my free Publishing Guide. And as we connect, I'm happy to send you the link to my Author Resources exclusively for my authors and clients.
