5 PR Myths Debunked...

Fact Or Fiction? What Really Goes On Behind PR Agency Doors...

1. Myth: Clients think they'll never see the person from the pitch again, and it’ll be handed to an intern once the project is secured…

onechocolate communications / Via memegenerator.net

Reality: Although you do usually get extra people in the background working on your account – that’s a bonus! The ‘pitch team’ you meet at presentations are the key people responsible for your account management, and will invest more time in you than you probably realise.

2. Myth: PRs are more than a bit like Eddie and Patsy from Ab Fab – it’s all about lunches and pretentious arse kissing

@263Kimmy / Via sogoodwhenithitsmyeyes.blogspot.co.uk

Reality: If only we had the time to sink Bolly like Eddie and Patsy. It sounds absolutely dreamy. Truth is, coming up with key messages to create strategic communications for multi-channel campaigns requires a clear head and, alas, the news agenda won’t stand still long enough for a girl to nip out for new shoes.

3. Myth: PR agencies are bitchy and everyone’s competing to achieve starry PR coverage for THEMSELVES…

Dennis Carr / Via Flickr: postal67

Reality: Agency PR teams really pull together to achieve results. In fact, there’s a lot of support and camaraderie between colleagues in PR agencies. In such a fast paced industry, lone wolves can find themselves struggling to survive.

4. Myth: We can tell journalists what to write about our clients…

Wikimedia Commons / Via commons.wikimedia.org

Reality: Hah! If journalists and editors would just print our news releases verbatim, PR would be a doddle, right?! But these people will insist on editorial integrity! Our role is to pique their interest with a story that has real legs; that can be fully substantiated and will genuinely appeal to their readers.

5. Myth: PR can make your company famous overnight…

@TheEllenShow / Via Twitter: @TheEllenShow

Reality: As appealing as the thought of becoming a record-breaking, viral sensation Ellen Degeneres style is... the truth is that building brand awareness and credibility takes time. The general rule of thumb is that it takes 3-4 months into a campaign before you even start to see media placements.

What are the biggest myths - or ugly truths - you've encountered in the PR world?! Please share your stories...