Publicity vs. PR

Although most people don’t see it, there is a distinct difference between publicity and PR. While publicity achieves notoriety through accumulated press exposure, PR capitalizes on human nature. Publicity is getting a message to a mass audience, while PR is having the audience listen, understand and want more. These are essential in the business world and every business needs both.

Some people think that getting their name in the media is enough. You’ve heard the old cliché “Any publicity is good publicity” and, while this may be true for the struggling actor or actress who hasn’t been in a movie in ten years, in business the story isn’t quite the same. Publicity in business without a clear, well constructed message is just a waste of money. What do you want your customers and prospects to know about you? How are you different – and better – than your competitors? Every strong publicity strategy needs a great PR message behind it. Together, your business can stay healthy during any economic time.

Before You Take a Shot…SWOT

SWOT Analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in any kind of business venture. This tool is essential when you are diving into something new, and the reputation or success of your business is on the line. It specifies the internal and external factors that are both favorable and unfavorable to achieving the objective you have in mind.

A SWOT Analysis starts with defining a desired end state or objective. Although it may seem obvious that you need a goal, it is still very important that your objective is clear and specific. Once this has been determined, it’s time for the SWOT.

• Strengths: attributes of the person or company which are helpful to achieving the objective.
• Weaknesses: attributes of the person or company which are harmful to achieving the objective.
• Opportunities: external conditions that are helpful to achieving the objective.
• Threats: external conditions which could do damage to the business’s performance.

Be sure to identify and address the factors in each category. Follow these steps of analysis and you can better ensure that your business venture or project will be a success. For more helpful tips, visit our website www.isalsmanpr.com or become one of our friends on Facebook.