Networking in Conjunction With Public Relations, Essay Example

Public relations is a skill that is not only useful in managing your firm’s reputation in the media but also creating long-term value and loyalty from your customers. Networking comprises a profound philosophical approach of being interested in other parties/people and genuinely showing the will to help them. The norm for Public Relations is often to contain damaging information efficiently, but the addition of networking has brought about a much more defined differentiation in terms of marketing services and establishing lasting relations.

An important aspect of networking with Public Relation application was introduced when social networks like Twitter and Facebook were invented. These platforms have proved to be powerful communication tools for mass markets. Traditional methods of networking, face to face engagement with professionals and clients, has its merits when it comes to PR. As an entrepreneur, you get the opportunity to describe how your business is different and better compared to your competitors. In the process, your company gains a positive reputation and trust.

However, the fundamental challenge in networking with PR inclusion is effectively communicating and credibly presenting your business. The networker should convincingly engage and dialogue with the right people to the point that they can easily endorse your company to their close friends or colleagues (Green, 2008).   Entrepreneurs such as Richard Branson and Donald Trump use networking in conjunction with Public Relation as a marketing communication tool for their businesses.

Richard Branson networked on behalf of the Virgin Music Group. He met with musicians, agents, music distributors and even swapped phone numbers. It was back in 1970’s when he did all that. In addition, Branson says that he met key players in the market by attending industry events and joining relevant associations. He also adds that, through networking, he got to explain his business ideas, secured interested investors and identified supportive partners and employees for Virgin Media.

The Virgin Media group started with 100 members in 2010, and it has grown to 3000 members through a series of online networking and PR application. The ‘Virgin’ brand name reputation has been controlled and enhanced through viable network building by Richard Branson and his team. The Virgin Media Pioneer is a platform that help budding entrepreneurs to get instant networking paths for their businesses. The net effect is the positive value of reciprocity brought about by the engagement between these two parties.

Another situation where networking in conjunction with Public Relations has succeeded is with Donald Trump’s business. Trump network was responsible for introducing new products into the market using the ‘Trump’ brand name. The multi-level marketing model has helped Trump scale up his operations in new markets in Europe and Asia. Donald Trump knew how strong his brand name is, which made it easy for him to build a network marketing company. Prospective sales people enter the network with an initial investment of $48 and get to grow their net worth by selling unprecedented health products. The aggressive PR application in this MLM Company gave Donald Trump a handsome return during the first two years of business.

In conclusion, the modern integration of Public Relations and networking has helped several companies leverage their sales and increase market share and consumer loyalty. Moreover, leveraging the power of online social platforms has enabled firms handle Public Relations issues with the click of a button and simultaneously network with prospective clients (Green, 2008). Not only will entrepreneurs be able to keep a pulse on news developments and particular industries, but they get to connect with people in a manner that they are already accustomed.

References

Green, A. (2008). Effective personal communication skills for public relations. New Delhi: Kogan Page.