Are you contemplating if you should run an event for your business? Here’s something you might not have thought about: getting a Public Relations (PR) agency to run your event instead.

Public relations companies are becoming an increasingly popular choice for events management, as they achieve two goals at once: both managing and promoting events. From product launches and press conferences to corporate events and charity galas, many PR companies have the skills and experience to ensure that events run smoothly and attract a large amount of attention.

Here are some reasons why PR companies are a fantastic choice for running events:

1. Strategic Planning

PR companies have experience in developing event strategies that align with a company's goals and objectives. They can assist with everything from selecting the right venue to crafting the right messaging for the event.

One example of this is in 2020, where the PR company, Ketchum, helped plan and execute the virtual Pride celebration for the global tech giant Cisco. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the in-person event was no longer an option, so Ketchum had to develop a new strategy to create a memorable and engaging virtual event.

Ketchum designed a comprehensive virtual event experience, with a full program of speakers, panels, and performances. They also created interactive elements, such as virtual Pride flags that attendees could customize and share on social media.

To promote the event, Ketchum developed a multi-channel marketing campaign that included email marketing, social media, and influencer partnerships. They also worked with the media to secure coverage of the event, generating buzz and excitement among the LGBTQ+ community.

As a result of Ketchum's strategic planning, the virtual Pride celebration was a huge success, attracting thousands of attendees from around the world. The event received widespread media coverage and was praised for its engaging and inclusive programming.

2. Attention to Detail

PR companies have a keen eye for detail and understand the importance of creating a memorable experience for attendees. They manage everything from the registration process to the decor, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.

One example of how attention to detail really matters in events is the opening of the TWA Hotel in New York. In 2019, the PR company, LDPR, helped plan and execute the opening of the TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The event was a celebration of the restoration of the iconic TWA Flight Center, which had been closed since 2001.

To make the event memorable, LDPR paid close attention to every detail, from the design of the invitations to the layout of the event space. They recreated the famous TWA uniforms for the staff, and even created a replica of a vintage TWA aeroplane parked outside the event space.

As a result of their attention to detail, the event was a huge success, attracting a large crowd and generating significant media coverage. Attendees raved about the overall experience, and the TWA Hotel became an instant hit, drawing visitors from all over the world.

3.Media Relations

PR companies have established relationships with the media and can leverage those relationships to generate buzz and publicity for the event. They can help secure media coverage, coordinate interviews, and ensure that the event is properly promoted.

If you’ve ever played Red Dead Redemption 2, you might have been part of this already! In 2018, the PR company, Weber Shandwick, helped plan and execute the launch of Red Dead Redemption 2 for Rockstar Games. As a highly anticipated release, the event had significant media attention, and Weber Shandwick played a crucial role in managing media relations and securing coverage.

Weber Shandwick worked closely with the media to create a pre-release media strategy that included exclusive content, interviews with key developers, and review copies of the game. They also managed the media at the launch event, providing the media and various Key Outreach Leaders (KOLs, also known as influencers) with access to the game and key personnel for interviews and insights.

As a result of their media relations efforts, the launch of Red Dead Redemption 2 was a huge success, generating significant media coverage and widespread anticipation among gamers. The game became one of the best-selling games of all time, with over 37 million copies sold worldwide.

4. Crisis Management

PR companies are skilled in managing crises that may arise during events. They can quickly respond to any issues and help mitigate negative publicity. They are also adept at handling social media and can address any concerns or complaints in real-time.

One of the best examples of a PR company managing an event’s crisis management was Edelman’s managing of the events during and after the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013. 

The Boston Athletic Association (BAA) was facing significant challenges, including how to respond to the tragedy while still maintaining the integrity of the marathon and reassuring participants and spectators.

Edelman worked closely with the BAA to develop a crisis communication plan that included messaging, media relations, and social media management. They created a central hub for all communications and kept a close eye on social media channels to monitor sentiment and respond to questions and concerns from the public.

As a result of their crisis management efforts, the BAA was able to successfully navigate the aftermath of the tragedy and maintain the integrity of the Boston Marathon. The event continued to be a symbol of resilience and community, and the BAA received much deserved praise for their handling of the crisis.

If you want to get the maximum value out of an event, a PR agency is almost always the best option to take. On top of getting PR value out of your event, you will also experience a smoother workflow, as there will be no lapses in communication when only one party is in charge.

Are you thinking of hosting an event for your company? DIFY has plenty of experience handling both large-scale and small scale events, from sourcing for speakers to running your media platforms. Simply contact us via the link below, and we’ll get back to you with a free consultation!
https://www.dify.sg/contact