So, you're standing on business and decided that in 2026 you're ready to invest in public relations. As a small business, we understand that investments require a Return on Investment and we want you to be prepared. Our motto, "invisible" efforts, visible impact. But trust me, at The i-PR Agency there are no magic wands just vision, intuition, experience, instinct, and clean execution. Whether you’re launching a new product, leveling up your personal brand, or elevating your business visibility, hiring a publicist is a strategic step toward long-term growth. But to truly make the most of this investment, preparation is key.
Here’s what you should know (and do) before working with a publicist to ensure a strong start and lasting success:
1. Clarify Your Goals
Before you even begin your PR journey, define what success looks like. Are you aiming for media coverage? Increased brand awareness? Speaking opportunities? Partnerships? A seasoned publicist can help refine and prioritize your goals, but it helps if you come to the table with clarity.
Ask yourself:
- What story do I want to tell?
- Who am I trying to reach?
- What does visibility mean for my brand?
2. Know Your Brand Inside and Out
A publicist’s job is to amplify your story. But first, they need to understand it. Come prepared with your:
- Brand mission and values
- Key products or services
- Founder's bio or company background
- Visual branding assets (logo, brand colors, headshots)
- Social media and website links
The more cohesive your brand is, the easier it is for a publicist to create a narrative that resonates.
3. Get Comfortable with Visibility
Hiring a publicist means opening yourself up to the public eye. That could mean:
- Participating in interviews
- Speaking on panels or podcasts
- Showing up consistently on social media
Even if you're shy or reserved, part of the PR process will involve positioning you (or a representative) as the face of your brand.
4. Be Ready to Collaborate and Trust the Process
Great PR takes time. And for the people in the back, Great PR Takes Time!
It’s not just about one big feature—it’s about building relationships, momentum, and credibility over time. Be open to your publicist’s strategy and insights. You bring the passion, we bring the positioning.
You’ll also need to:
- Respond promptly to media opportunities
- Review materials like press releases or bios
- Share updates or upcoming launches early (in most cases 6 - 12 months depending on the scale of your program)
5. Have Assets and Access Ready
Make sure you have (or are willing to develop) the following:
- A high-resolution photo gallery (of yourself, your product, or your space)
- A media kit or press-ready bio
- Testimonials, case studies, or impact data (if available)
- Access to analytics for past campaigns (email lists, web traffic, etc.)
The right assets help your publicist move faster and pitch smarter.
6. Understand the Investment
As mentioned in the intro, PR is not a magic wand. It’s a partnership and a process. Budget for at least 6 to 12 months of consistent PR work to see meaningful results. And remember, you’re not just paying for “mentions”....you’re investing in strategy, storytelling, positioning, and the relationships your publicist brings to the table.
Final Thoughts
Working with a publicist can be a game-changer—but it’s most effective when you come prepared, focused, and open. When both sides are aligned, PR becomes more than just press, it becomes a movement.
Ready to elevate your brand’s visibility? Let’s talk.
Begin working with us by telling us more about you! If you haven’t already, here’s a link to our PR Representation Intake Form. If you’ve already completed the intake form, the next step is to schedule a call with a publicist from our Team for your first Discovery Call.