What is the new need driving companies to turn to PR agencies?

What percentage of a company’s budget is usually spent on communication/PR programs?

What’s the latest, easy-to-use and professional-looking template for presentations?

For answers, stay tuned.

In June, I had an eye-opening, palate-pleasing, inspirational three days with my colleagues in PRBI, (Public Relations Boutiques International), a network of seasoned PR practitioners from around the world who recognize and deliver on the value of the boutique PR agency: small by design, focused, senior level expertise for every client. Like another agency you may know called Scott Public Relations. This year, I am honored to serve as President of this dynamic organization with members from Boston to Seattle, Japan, China, Malaysia and Korea, Germany, Italy, Russia, the U.K., Canada and Brazil.

With speakers presenting the latest findings in agency/client relationships, social media, and the world of blogging, dinners at some of the best restaurants in Portland (including its amazing Farmer’s Market), and ideas and brainstorms from some of the brightest minds in public relations, it was a stellar get-together in every way.

So, what are the answers to the three questions posed in the beginning of this blog?

Traditionally, companies have turned to PR agencies for a set of services that come under the heading of “PR.” Now, for the first time, research from USC’s Annenberg School of Communications found that the number one reason companies engage agencies is for creative ideas – in other words, for brains, not necessarily brawn. I believe this is a trend that we are seeing in all service industries – companies expect the experts they engage to not only provide excellent services, but to bring the value-add of strategic and creative thinking.

The same survey revealed that companies spend on average .04 to .06 percent of their revenues on public relations. Do some quick calculations to see if you are over or under that amount!

Finally, Haiku Deck is an easy to use, simple and concise format for presentations. One of our member agencies used it and everyone was impressed.

For more information on PRBI, visit the PRBI website.

If you’re in healthcare, insurance, technology or other professional services industries, and need help with a PR, marketing or social media campaign, contact Scott Public Relations.

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