Nurturing relationships is essential, particularly in the PR world, but what does it take to build strong, lasting, trusting relationships with clients? With over 20 years in the foodservice industry, Proactive has learned the most effective methods to drive positive results for its clients. Here’s some pointers on how this has been achieved.
Be proactive
Going the extra mile when coming up with new opportunities and strategies that may assist clients is key and can add real value. At Proactive we anticipate the client’s needs – and deliver on this every time. Our strategic, results driven approach allows us to not only deliver the best for our clients in terms of content and brand exposure, but also helps our clients to meet their commercial objectives. We have each and every one of our client’s best interests at heart and as an experienced foodservice PR agency, we will always make this our number one priority.
Be realistic and true to your word
There’s nothing worse than making promises you can’t keep, therefore simply delivering on what you say is fundamental. Setting out, from the start, what you do and don’t do and what the client can expect from you as an agency is important. Therefore, being realistic with what you can achieve and staying true to your commitments is essential. This will help to build client trust. Proactive is hot on meeting deadlines and being transparent with clients and has a reputation for always delivering content on time, if not before.
Communication is key
Constantly talking to your client and being ready to answer any queries or issues they may have is fundamental. Also, checking in with them regularly, asking them for their feedback on how the working relationship is going is also important. Scheduling regular calls and meetings is another way of reaching out to them. Always being accessible is the key, whilst always responding promptly. Communication is at the heart of Proactive and is something we will always strive to deliver.
Honesty is the best policy
Not everything always goes according to plan. But if it doesn’t, there’s nothing wrong with holding your hands up as long as you can come up with a solution to fix the issue. Owning mistakes can go a long way in earning long term respect from clients and the wider industry.
Media relationships
A PR agency who has solid relationships with key journalists and editors is a huge bonus for clients. Given my experience in foodservice, I am fortunate to be well connected – particularly with key associations as well as some of the industry’s leading trade publications and the teams working across these titles. Proactive has a long history of securing quality editorial coverage in foodservice and related trade magazines which is extremely valuable – building brand reputations and influencing opinions within the industry.
Personal level
Connecting with clients on a personal level is key – getting to know them and what makes them tick. Find out what is important to them. At Proactive we are a professional yet personable bunch and love nothing more than to meet up with clients to talk business over coffee or lunch. It’s the little touches that can go a long way.
Quality content
Proactive has the know-how and insight to assist clients in delivering quality content, every time. We have an approved network of copywriters, designers and other specialists who are wholly dedicated to their roles – whether that be journalists for features and interview content or digital marketeers for social media exposure – we take a unique approach to each and every one of our clients. Having the skills set and capacity to be able to deliver varied content for different needs allows us, as an experienced PR agency, to deliver value for money for our clients by providing only the best results in terms of content and brand exposure.
Understand the business
How can you help someone accomplish their goals if you don’t understand their business, brand or market? You simply can’t – which is why making the time to get to know your client is crucial. Getting to know the client’s needs and goals is a top priority at Proactive. We engrain ourselves in all of our client’s brands, using integrated marketing activities and channels to reach campaign objectives and raise brand awareness. We pride ourselves on supporting and understanding each and every one of our clients – every step of the way.