Happy Australia Day for January 26. If you live in other parts of the world consider that in Australia today it is a public holiday and most Aussies head outdoors to enjoy the summer weather. We'll be at beaches and barbeques and waving the Australian flag at the many celebrations held throughout the country. It's a beautiful time to be here and I hope it entices a few of you to come and visit.

Now that's my bit of PR for the land "down under" which brings me to my newsletter theme this month. Planning a range of public relations activity for the year ahead. I hope you enjoy the tips and if so please pass this newsletter on.

Keep shining!

New Year PR Plan

I know you must have a great product or service or are the best at what you do, but what's the point if no one knows about it? 

There are hundreds of ways you could communicate with your target public. Word of Mouth is a very powerful public relations weapon. But not everyone realises that one of the best ways of generating it is through publicity. Let's consider some public relations strategies you could use to incorporate into your own PR campaign over the next 12 months.

1. Publicity. Free media coverage such as news stories, feature articles, radio talk show interviews, television appearances, editorials and reviews. Getting that coverage can be gained through effective media relations such as sending out media releases and media kits, writing personal letters and making phone calls to editors and journalists. It is very effective when it happens. They say publicity is seven times more effective than advertising.
2. Special events. Holding an event such as an open day, business lunch or cocktail function at your place of business would create word of mouth amongst clients and friends. You could align yourself with a charity and hold a fund raising event, perhaps take part in a trade show or enter business or trade awards. Even if you don't win anything the exposure may create some publicity. 
3. Sponsorships.. If you don't want to organise your own event perhaps sponsor one that somebody else is doing. Just make sure your sponsorship is acknowledged on any advertising and other communication collateral so that word of mouth is effective.
4. Public Speaking.. Even though it can be a most terrifying ordeal, giving free speeches to business clubs or other organisations is a good way to let people know about your business and area of expertise. 
5. Product launches are another special event where you might get some media exposure. Invite the media along to the launch and also arrange for product giveaways to the media, perhaps it's your latest book or range of cosmetics. 
6. Newsletter either email or hard copy are direct communication with your public, clients and customers. Try a range or mix of written communication maybe a formal letter, followed up by a special report or a post card. Keeping in constant contact will create familiarity.
7. Write articles about your area of expertise and submit them to business or consumer publications print or online publications. Try your in-house company newsletter or other trade or industry publications. You will be seen as an expert in your area and this will create credibility. For maximum exposure write a book.
8. Fact sheets, tip sheets, postcard or a brochure. Written information about you, your product or service that you can include with any mail outs or have in your reception area. Make sure you have plenty of testimonials from happy customers and clients to include in any written communication.
9. Create a website if you haven't done so already. An online presence is almost mandatory these days. It is your online PR brochure. But you need to keep telling people about it and incorporate a range of website promotion tactics. Read how to Promote your Online Presence. 
10. Alliances. Often times we are asked to donate our services to charity which is fine, but why not try and get an acknowledgment in a program, or poster. Cross-promotion is effective. Build strong affiliate relationships and connect with other businesses that have the same core customer base. Give and ask for referrals.
11. Something as simple as sending thank you notes and letters, clippings of interest and letters of congratulations is good personal PR.
12. Networking. Join business or community associations of interest to you in your area. Attend regularly and meet as many different people as possible. By building rapport and a friendship it may lead to business. After all people do like to do business with people they like.  For information on a number of networking associations, Please check out this page as you'll find some great resources for all business people

Shine Brand Champion

Kylie Minogue, "Can't get you out of my head". It seems in the UK "Brand Kylie" is definitely in the spotlight this month. Not only is she singing these lyrics during her current UK Showgirl Homecoming tour, but just this month Kylie was named UK Glamour Magazine's best-dressed woman: has unveiled a new Kylie wax work at Madame Tussauds: unveiled a plaque of her handprints at Wembley and has launched her Darling perfume in London. Such incredible exposure reinforces strong brand recall.

Kylie also continues to reinvent and reinvigorate her personal brand. This past year she has revealed a more sophisticated and chic Parisian look. According to Glamour Magazine's editor, Jo Elvin, "We've seen a newer, softer looking Kylie this year. She's still sexy but she's not flaunting that side of herself in gold hot pants any more. She's letting it shine through subtly, with a classic personal style that women really identify with".

Shine Seminars

Shine Communications assists you in investing in you or your team by providing guidance, education and training. We teach you valuable skills to become successful. Our seminar and keynote topics include:

This approach to combining personal image with brand visibility helps you to shine for success.

All of these topics can be delivered in-house for organisation. Or delivered by Sue Currie as a keynote or breakout session at your conference or convention.