The Power of PR: Navigating Breaking News with Roam Generation
In today's fast-paced world, breaking news spreads like wildfire, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide. When unexpected events occur, such as accidents, crises, or significant developments, it becomes crucial for businesses to respond swiftly and strategically. As the Director of Roam Generation, a leading PR agency specialising in the travel, adventure and lifestyle industries, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of working with a PR agency during such critical moments. In this article, we will delve into the significance of partnering with a PR agency when faced with breaking news and showcase how Roam Generation successfully managed to promote our clients, Catamaran Guru and SubMerge, during challenging times.
The Impact of Breaking News:
When breaking news hits, it can significantly impact a company's reputation, brand image, and public perception. The way a business responds to such events plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and maintaining stakeholder trust. This is where a skilled PR agency steps in, providing the expertise and guidance needed to navigate the complex world of crisis communication and reputation management.
Case Study: Catamaran Guru's Orca Encounter:
Recently, Catamaran Guru, one of our esteemed clients, faced an unexpected incident when their yacht, being delivered, had its rudders bitten off by orcas. Understanding the significance of this event and the potential impact on Catamaran Guru's reputation, our team sprang into action. We immediately recognised the opportunity to position Catamaran Guru as a reliable source of expertise in the maritime industry, focusing on their commitment to safety and their extensive knowledge of sailing in orca-populated waters.
Crafting a Strategic Response:
Our first step was to develop a comprehensive communications strategy that highlighted Catamaran Guru's perspective on the incident while emphasising their dedication to safety standards. We reached out to relevant media outlets, both nationally and internationally, sharing Catamaran Guru's video footage and unique insights on the encounter and their proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Securing Media Coverage:
Through strategic media outreach, we successfully secured interviews and features for Catamaran Guru in reputable publications around the world. Our team leveraged our existing media relationships, positioning Catamaran Guru as the go-to expert in the aftermath of the orca incident. This exposure not only allowed Catamaran Guru to share their side of the story but also positioned them as industry leaders committed to providing safe and memorable sailing experiences. Catamaran Guru was mentioned 143 times, reaching a total audience of over 2 billion people and garnering $22 million dollars worth of publicity. Their video went viral. So viral, in fact, that a few days later, when I was sitting with my kids watching TV, the orca video was featured on the YouTube channel they were watching!
Case Study: SubMerge's Expertise Amidst a Submersible Incident:
In another instance, SubMerge, a prominent client specialising in submersibles, faced a challenging situation when a competitor's submersible went missing and was later found to have imploded. Recognising the opportunity to showcase SubMerge's expertise and reinforce their commitment to safety, we immediately positioned them as industry experts who could provide valuable insights on the incident.
Providing Expert Commentary:
Through strategic media outreach, we offered SubMerge as an authoritative source to comment on the incident, sharing their perspective on submersible safety standards and their commitment to ensuring the utmost protection for their clients. They were featured in 211 articles around the world, reaching 1 billion eight hundred and eight one million people! By showcasing SubMerge's knowledge and dedication to excellence, we solidified their position as a trusted leader in the submersible industry.
Conclusion:
When faced with breaking news, partnering with a skilled PR agency can make all the difference in managing the narrative and maintaining a positive brand image. The Catamaran Guru and SubMerge case studies exemplify the power of strategic PR during challenging times. At Roam Generation, we understand the intricacies of crisis communication and reputation management, enabling us to effectively navigate breaking news situations and position our clients as industry experts.
If your business finds itself in the midst of a breaking news event, remember the importance of swift action, strategic messaging, and expert guidance. By working with a PR agency like Roam Generation, you can proactively shape the narrative, protect your brand's reputation, and emerge stronger from the crisis.
About the Author:
Erin Carey is the Director of Roam Generation, a leading PR agency specialising in the travel, adventure and lifestyle industries. With years of experience in strategic communication, crisis management, and brand promotion, Erin and her team have successfully navigated numerous breaking news situations, helping clients to maintain their reputations and leverage opportunities for positive exposure.
