Frequently Asked Questions

Our frequently asked questions section addresses your key questions. At Osborn Communications, we know marketing leads, communications professionals and business owners have queries about public relations, media relations and social media management services.

To find out more about how we can help, get in touch.

What does a PR agency do?
A PR agency helps businesses to manage their public image and build strong relationships with their audiences. This includes securing media coverage, managing crisis communications, creating compelling content and developing strategic campaigns that enhance your brand’s reputation.

 

How do I find a PR agency?
When looking for a PR agency, consider your industry, budget and goals. Search for reputable UK PR agencies with proven success in your sector. Check client reviews, case studies and ask for recommendations. Our Midlands PR agency offers tailored PR and content production services to help businesses across the UK build their brand and reach new audiences.

 

How much does a PR agency cost?
The cost of hiring a PR agency in the UK varies based on the services you need, the agency’s experience and the length of your campaign. Some agencies charge a monthly retainer, while others offer project-based pricing. Our Midlands PR agency offers flexible packages tailored to your budget, making it easy and affordable to ‘plug in’ to Osborn.

 

Is PR the same thing as advertising?

Not quite, although they’re complementary practices and can work exceptionally well together. PR focuses on building and maintaining a positive public image through earned media, like press releases and media coverage. It relies on third-party endorsements for credibility. Advertising, on the other hand, is paid promotion where businesses control the message, placement and timing. While PR builds trust organically, advertising offers direct, targeted messaging for immediate impact.

 

I don’t read newspapers or magazines. Why is press coverage important?

Even if you don’t read newspapers or magazines, press coverage boosts your business’s credibility and visibility. Media features enhance trust, attract new customers and improve SEO, making your brand more discoverable online. Positive coverage also opens doors to partnerships, investment opportunities and increased industry recognition.

 

Do I really need a PR agency?
If you’re looking to increase brand awareness, manage your reputation or reach new audiences, hiring a PR agency can be a game-changer. Whether you need help with media outreach, crisis communication or content production, a PR agency can provide the expertise and connections to elevate your business. Osborn Communications specialises in helping SMEs across the West Midlands and throughout the UK to make a lasting impact.

 

What is a PR campaign?

A PR campaign is a strategic effort to manage how your brand or organisation is perceived by the public. It uses media coverage, press releases, events, and social media to share key messages, build brand awareness, enhance reputation, and engage target audiences, often supporting broader marketing goals. Osborn Communications specialises in creating PR campaigns that attract significant press coverage, including online, in print and across broadcast channels.

 

What is a PR strategy?

A PR strategy is a planned approach to managing how a business or brand is perceived by the public. It outlines key messages, target audiences and communication channels, using media coverage, content and sometimes events to build reputation, increase visibility and support broader marketing and business objectives.

 

Is a PR strategy the same as a communications plan?

A PR strategy and a comms plan are certainly related, but not the same. A PR strategy outlines long-term goals, key messages and target audiences to shape public perception. A comms plan details the specific tactics, timelines and channels used to deliver those messages and achieve the strategic objectives. Osborn Communications have proven expertise with both.

 

Which areas does Osborn Communications cover?

From our base near Birmingham in the West Midlands, Osborn provides strategic PR services to companies across the whole of the UK and internationally. Our broad reach ensures tailored, impactful communication strategies for businesses of all sizes, wherever they are located.

 

Should we use a PR agency with journalistic experience?

In our opinion, absolutely. A PR agency which has significant journalistic experience, like Osborn, understands how the media operates and can craft compelling stories that capture editors’ attention. We know what makes news, ensuring your message is timely and relevant. Our media contacts and insider knowledge can significantly increase your chances of securing valuable, credible press coverage that boosts your brand.

 

What is media training?
Media training prepares individuals and businesses to effectively communicate with the press and public. It teaches you how to deliver key messages confidently, handle interviews, manage tough questions and maintain control in high-pressure situations. Our UK PR agency offers tailored media training based on our solid journalistic background, to help you build confidence and represent your brand professionally.

 

Who should have media training?

Media training benefits executives, spokespeople, politicians, public figures and anyone representing an organisation in the media. It helps them communicate clearly, handle tough questions, stay on message and project confidence during interviews, press conferences or public appearances. At our Midlands PR agency, we also offer media training to help you confidently handle any press interviews and public speaking engagements.

 

What is a digital PR agency?
A digital PR agency focuses on enhancing your online presence. This includes securing online media mentions, improving SEO rankings, managing social media campaigns and crafting digital content that drives traffic and engagement. As both a PR agency and content production agency, we integrate traditional and digital strategies to deliver comprehensive results.

 

How can a PR agency help with social media?

A PR agency can enhance social media by creating engaging content, managing brand reputation and ensuring consistent messaging across platforms. They develop strategic campaigns, handle crisis communication, grow audience engagement and leverage media relationships to boost visibility, helping brands build trust and connect with their target audience effectively.

 

Why should my business enter industry awards?

Entering industry awards boosts credibility, enhances brand reputation and increases visibility among peers and clients. Winning or being shortlisted showcases excellence, motivates your team and differentiates your company from competitors. Awards also provide valuable PR opportunities, attract new business and strengthen trust with existing customers.

 

Does my business need to be on every social media platform?

No, your business doesn’t need to be on every social media platform. It’s much more effective to focus on the platforms where your target audience is most active. A strategic, tailored approach ensures consistent, engaging content that maximises impact and saves time, rather than stretching resources across unnecessary channels.

 

Why do we need to write blog posts?

Blogs are essential for boosting SEO, establishing authority in your industry and providing valuable content for your audience. They also drive website traffic, support marketing campaigns and build trust with potential customers. A reputable UK PR agency like Osborn Communications can craft well-written, engaging blogs that reflect your brand’s voice and expertise.

 

What other types of content can a PR agency help with?

A PR agency can help with a wide range of content, including press releases, blogs, social media posts, newsletters, case studies, website copy, award submissions, speeches, whitepapers and thought leadership articles. They ensure all content aligns with your brand voice, engages your audience and supports your business goals.

 

What are the benefits of case studies?

Case studies showcase real-life examples of your products or services delivering results, building credibility and trust with potential clients. They highlight your expertise, problem-solving skills, and successes, making your offerings relatable and persuasive. Case studies also provide valuable content for marketing, PR and sales, driving engagement and conversions.

If you’d like support with building or improving your company’s reputation, we can help. Osborn’s clients benefit from our years of experience generating positive content for different audiences. Drop us a line to book in a chat.