I decided to start Solo PR Pro because I’m often asked to recommend online resources that focus just on independent PR and Marketing Communications consultants… and I realized there really aren’t any. Solo PR Pros have a great life, and I firmly believe that more people would go independent if they knew how. Even for those of us who’ve been doing this a while, there are always new skills to learn and innovative tools to try.
This blog will provide tips and advice on being and becoming a Solo PR Pro:
- Solo – The “Solo” in Solo PR Pro is a bit of a misnomer, since we aren’t completely alone, but we do operate independently (which I think is the best part!). This blog will address the key questions of going solo: how do you decide when the time is right to make the leap? Do you have to dive into the deep end, or can you wade in? What kind of fee structure should you use, and how do you get started? We’ll also look at how to offer new services for additional revenue streams, as well as ways to maximize effectiveness once your PR consulting business is underway.
- PR – The Public Relations industry is changing dramatically, due to the massive shifts taking place within traditional media outlets and the growing importance of social media. Marketing Communications is also undergoing a transformation, as the marketing mix continues to evolve with the emergence of new technologies. As solo PR pros, it’s important that we remain forward-looking and provide leadership to our clients – this blog will cover the key takeaways you’ll need to know about our developing industry.
- Pro – As an independent consultant, you are a business owner. In addition to things like business formation, taxation and legal issues, we’ll cover decisions like what kind of office set-up you'd like, what technologies you'll be using, and what kind of marketing materials you really need.
The blog is just getting going, so thanks for bearing with me as I work out any kinks (and thanks for being one of my first readers, by the way!). Here are a couple posts to get you started:
For me the most important and exciting thing about this blog will be building a community here where we can all learn from each other and share ideas. If you have any topics you'd like to see covered in the near-term, suggestions are welcome! Please send them along using the contact form, or note them in the comments.
If you like what you see, don't forget to Subscribe – either by email or RSS reader (links to subscribe appear in the upper right corner of this blog). You can also share Solo PR Pro posts by email or social networking sites using the buttons below.
Kellye, I am thrilled that you started this blog and look forward to being a part of the conversation. Congratulations!
Susan’s last blog post..A class act
Thanks, Susan! I look forward to your thoughts and ideas.
Kellye, Wow great leadership! I am planning to forward around here so we can learn from the independents! Looking forward to the updates!
Thanks, Kirsten! It’s exciting to imagine this blog being read by you and your smart colleagues in PR at The Coca-Cola Company. We’ll look forward to having the whole gang participate in the conversation!
Kellye – congrats on jumping in and setting up your little corner of the online blogosphere world. I’ve subscribed and look forward to hearing your insights and jumping in with gems of my own.
david mullen’s last blog post..How Veterans Day Came to Life for Me
I’m very excited to read more Kellye! After 13 years of PR/marketing experience, I am trying to take the plunge myself into the solo PR scene. I’m especially looking forward to reading the “finding clients” information!
Thanks to David Mullen for pointing this site out (via Twitter).
@David Since you’re the expert in finding gems, yours are certainly welcome here.
@Lisa Good for you! Please be sure to keep letting me know what you need, and I’ll do my best to serve it up.
@Jen Thanks for the encouragement — I agree that we’re all on this journey together. Happy to have you along!
What a great idea Kellye! I’ve been solo 4 years and learn something new every day. I can’t wait to hear more from you, me and everyone else.
Congrats, Kellye! I’m looking forward to reading you here.
Kellye, I’m so glad to see you’ve finally taken the plunge! I can’t wait to see what else you’ve got up your sleeve! Congrats on the new blog. 🙂
Shannon Paul’s last blog post..Comments are not ads
Thanks to both Ann and Shannon for the encouragement! I’m honored to have these superstars stop by. If you aren’t already reading and following them, I encourage you to do so (they both also happen to be extremely nice and generous!).