5 types of PR agencies to avoid

Ever meet the agency that says, ‘Of course, I can get your op-ed in the Times’? Better steer clear of that one—and these four other firms.

Ragan Insider Premium Content
Ragan Insider Content

1.”You, my client, are ALWAYS right, and I ALWAYS agree with everything you say.” This is the absolute worst thing a PR pro can ever tell a client. The most derelict publicists are the ones who refuse to speak their minds and apply their actual experience to client needs. More often than not, the PR relationship is about managing expectations, and just like any other professional service, those expectations can at times be unrealistic. As the client, if your PR agency never questions your objectives or subjects them to rigorous examination, then you’re getting suckered out of your PR budget.

2. “Of course I can get your op-ed in The New York Times.” We can’t all get ice cream for every meal. As exciting as your opinion might be to you, it’s a tall order to get your op-ed in the Times. Sometimes not even this guy makes the cut. So beware the publicist who guarantees he’ll score that fancy media placement. No decent PR pro would make such a foolish promise.

To read the full story, log in.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today

Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.