Next Steps After Hiring a Publicist for Your Brand

Hiring a publicist marks a major milestone for any brand. It signals your commitment to growing your presence and reaching new audiences. But once the contract is signed, what comes next? Many brands feel uncertain about how to work effectively with their publicist to get the best results. This post breaks down the key steps you should take after hiring a publicist to build a strong partnership and maximize your brand’s visibility.

Set Clear Goals and Expectations

The foundation of a successful relationship with your publicist is clarity. Before diving into campaigns or media outreach, sit down with your publicist to define what success looks like for your brand.

• Identify your primary objectives: Are you aiming to increase brand awareness, launch a new product, or improve your reputation?

• Agree on key performance indicators (KPIs): These might include media placements, social mentions, event attendance, or website traffic.

• Discuss your timeline: When do you expect to see results? Some PR efforts take months to gain traction.

• Clarify your budget and resources: Understand what is included in your publicist’s services and what additional costs might arise.

  
  

Having these details in writing helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps both parties aligned.

Share Your Brand Story and Assets

Your publicist needs a deep understanding of your brand to tell your story effectively. Provide them with comprehensive background information and materials, such as:

• Your brand’s mission, vision, and values

• Product or service details, including unique selling points

• Past press coverage or media mentions

• High-quality images, logos, and videos

• Customer testimonials or case studies

• Any upcoming events, launches, or milestones

  
  

The more your publicist knows, the better they can craft compelling pitches and tailor messaging to the right audiences.

Establish Communication and Reporting Processes

Regular communication ensures your publicist stays on track and you stay informed. Decide how often you want updates and in what format.

• Weekly or biweekly check-ins via phone or video call

• Monthly written reports summarizing media coverage, outreach efforts, and next steps

• Access to shared project management tools or calendars

  
  

Ask your publicist what they need from you to work efficiently, such as timely approvals or introductions to key contacts. Clear communication channels prevent delays and keep campaigns moving forward.

Collaborate on Media and Outreach Strategies

Your publicist will develop a media outreach plan, but your input is valuable. Discuss:

• Target media outlets and journalists that align with your brand

• Story angles that highlight your unique strengths

• Opportunities for interviews, guest articles, or speaking engagements

• Events or partnerships that can generate buzz

  
  

Be open to your publicist’s suggestions based on their experience and media relationships. At the same time, provide feedback to ensure the messaging feels authentic and aligned with your brand voice.

Prepare for Media Opportunities

When your publicist secures media interest, you need to be ready to respond quickly and professionally.

• Develop key talking points and FAQs to stay consistent

• Practice interviews or public speaking if needed

• Ensure you have updated contact information and availability

• Review any legal or compliance guidelines relevant to your industry

  
  

Being prepared helps you make the most of every opportunity and builds trust with journalists and audiences.

Workspace set up for planning public relations strategy

Monitor Results and Adjust Tactics

Public relations is an ongoing process that requires monitoring and adaptation.

• Track media coverage and audience engagement regularly

• Analyze what types of stories or outlets generate the best response

• Discuss results with your publicist and adjust strategies as needed

• Celebrate wins and learn from missed opportunities

  
  

This iterative approach helps you refine your messaging and focus efforts where they have the most impact.

Build a Long-Term Partnership

A publicist is more than a service provider—they are a partner in your brand’s growth.

• Maintain open, honest communication

• Share your evolving goals and challenges

• Provide feedback on what works and what doesn’t

• Explore new opportunities together, such as collaborations or events

  
  

Strong partnerships lead to more creative ideas and better results over time.

For more info: BestPRguy@gmail.com www.PublicityandMarketing.com