by pulseprni | Mar 27, 2025 | Clients, Opinion
Grainne McGarvey | Pulse PR Director
Public Relations has long been seen as the “softer” side of marketing – brand awareness, reputation management, thought leadership. But PR, when done right, delivers real business results. I recently worked with a client on a new service launch, and the outcome clearly demonstrates why PR can work, even for companies based in Northern Ireland aiming to reach global markets.
Our campaign with ARC Regulatory secured strong coverage in the business press in Northern Ireland – a great win in itself. But what happened next truly showcased the power of PR in today’s interconnected world. Thanks to strategic promotion on social media – especially LinkedIn – the coverage reached potential customers in the US, who saw the story and, crucially, it helped tip the balance and get them over the line.
PR didn’t just create buzz – it had a direct impact on sales.
But that’s not all. The PR exposure sparked enquiries from a number of potential new clients, all interested in the company’s services. Website traffic saw a huge spike, and LinkedIn engagement went through the roof. This is exactly why PR should not be underestimated. It’s not just about getting your name out there – it’s about aligning your story with your business goals and reaching the right people in the right way.
Why PR Works – And Keeps Working:
Here are a few additional reasons why PR is such a powerful tool:
- Credibility and Trust: Being featured in respected media outlets lends third-party credibility that advertising simply can’t replicate. It positions your brand as a trusted leader.
- Amplification on Social Media: In the age of LinkedIn, X and Instagram, media coverage has a second life. PR stories can be amplified across platforms, extending their reach far beyond the original audience.
- SEO and Web Traffic: Online articles and mentions can boost your SEO, driving more organic traffic to your website and increasing your visibility on search engines.
- Lead Generation: As seen with our campaign, PR can generate real leads. When potential clients see your success, they want to be part of it.
- Global Reach from Local Roots: As this case showed, you don’t need to be based in New York or London to make a global impact. PR can transcend borders, especially when leveraged through digital platforms.
- Long-Term Value: A good PR story keeps delivering value over time. Media coverage stays online, continues to be shared, and often gets referenced by others.
Final Thoughts
In an increasingly noisy marketplace, PR helps you cut through the clutter with authentic, compelling stories that resonate. It’s about more than just coverage – it’s about connection, conversion, and growth. Whether you’re targeting customers down the road or across the Atlantic, PR can work – and work wonders – for your business.
Get in touch if Pulse PR can help your business: Info@pulseprni.com
by pulseprni | Mar 27, 2025 | Clients
ARC Regulatory, a leading global specialist in research compliance for precision medicine clinical trials, has announced the launch of its new Laboratory Services division, supported by a £3 million self-funded investment in a state-of-the-art laboratory at its Belfast headquarters. This expansion alongside a recruitment campaign to double its 25 strong workforce marks a significant milestone in ARC’s commitment to providing comprehensive, end-to-end clinical trial support for implementing diagnostic tests in to precision medicine trials.
Located within Catalyst, Northern Ireland’s premier innovation hub, ARC Regulatory has built a reputation for facilitating the smooth and efficient progression of life-changing therapies through complex regulatory pathways. The newly established lab is currently staffed by a team of 7 experts from the precision medicine sector, further strengthening ARC’s capabilities in assay validation, clinical trial sample testing, and delivering clinical performance studies for complex in vitro diagnostic tests.
Seamus Kearney, the CEO and founder of ARC Regulatory, brings over two decades of experience in regulatory affairs and clinical research. Under his leadership, and with Dr Lindsey Bennie as Lab Manager, ARC has evolved into a global leader in regulatory compliance for precision medicine trials.
Seamus Kearney said, “The launch of our new Laboratory Services marks a transformative milestone in our mission to redefine regulatory support for precision medicine. By integrating cutting-edge laboratory capabilities with our existing regulatory and clinical operations expertise, we are providing clients with an unrivalled, end-to-end solution for global clinical trials. This expansion enables us to offer seamless assay validation in compliance with international regulatory standards, manage regulatory submissions and approvals for the research and deliver the in vitro diagnostic clinical study in accordance with international good clinical practice guidelines, fulfilling a significant gap in the early phases of clinical development of targeted precision therapeutics.
“We strategically chose Belfast as the location for our lab, leveraging its state-of-the-art facilities and the exceptional talent pool of scientists from across the UK and Ireland. Our investment not only enhances our service offering but also reinforces Belfast’s position as a hub for research excellence in precision medicine. By expanding our capabilities and growing our team, we aim to drive forward innovation in regulatory science while supporting the life sciences sector both locally and globally.”
ARC Regulatory’s investment in laboratory services underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence. With this new capability, ARC now offers First-in-Human (FiH) clinical sample testing, assay verification, and in-house regulatory compliance, ensuring streamlined, expedited trial execution supported by a team of globally renowned experts in regulatory compliance and good clinical practice.
The company, which currently employs 25 staff across the UK has ambitious plans for growth. ARC is actively recruiting an additional 25 team members this year including extending its laboratory team to support its expanding operations and is set to establish a new subsidiary sales office in Boston, further solidifying its global presence.
ARC’s impact extends beyond regulatory innovation, contributing significantly to the regional economy by positioning Belfast as a global hub for precision medicine expertise. Through job creation, industry collaborations, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the company continues to drive forward innovations in clinical trial management. Its award-winning study submission and regulatory intelligence platform, ARC360, is transforming how companies manage clinical research approvals.
With a track record of supporting over 90 precision medicine trials for leading pharmaceutical and diagnostic firms, ARC has established itself as a key player in the sector. The launch of its new lab services marks another milestone in the company’s mission to accelerate the delivery of life-saving treatments to patients worldwide.
More information can be found at www.arc-regulatory.com
by pulseprni | Jan 17, 2025 | Clients, Opinion
Grainne McGarvey | Pulse PR Director
As many of us start 2025 with enthusiasm and ambitious plans, it can be challenging to decide where to allocate our PR budgets. Here are my thoughts on key priorities to focus on in public relations and content this year.
Thought Leadership: Position Yourself as an Authority
Establish key leaders in your organisation as trusted voices within your industry. You can publish original insights if you work in niche areas, participate in relevant podcasts, and secure speaking engagements to strengthen credibility. Also, media outlets often refresh their contributors and columnists at the start of the year so this could be the perfect opportunity to pitch thought leadership content.
Authenticity and Transparency: Build Trust Through Honesty
In an age of misinformation, customers value brands that are open and accountable. Regularly share updates on your operations, sustainability goals, and diversity initiatives. Be upfront about mistakes and the steps you’re taking to address them. An example could be if you are experiencing supply chain delays you could issue a transparent explanation and provide proactive updates to maintain customer trust.
Embracing AI: Use Technology Responsibly
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the PR industry, offering incredible efficiency but also requiring ethical consideration. You can use AI tools for repetitive tasks like data analysis, social listening, and automated media monitoring, freeing up your team for more creative work. Develop clear AI policies addressing transparency, bias, and data privacy. Train your team to responsibly integrate AI into workflows without compromising the human touch.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Show You Care
Consumers are prioritising brands that demonstrate authentic commitment to ethical and environmental causes. With this in mind, promote your green initiatives, ethical supply chains, and community impact through transparent PR campaigns. Avoid “greenwashing” by providing verifiable data to back your claims. Highlight measurable milestones, such as achieving 80% recyclable packaging or donating a specific amount to community programmes.
Data-Driven Storytelling: Ground Your Narratives in Facts
Telling great stories is essential, but data makes them credible. Use surveys, case studies, and statistics to back your narratives. Turn complex data into compelling visuals like infographics or animated explainer videos to engage your audience. If you are a tech company for example you could share a report on how its product improves productivity, supported by case studies and user testimonials.
Crisis Management: Be Ready to Act Quickly and Strategically
In a world where news spreads instantly, preparing for crises is critical. According to PwC’s 2023 Global Crisis Resilience Survey, 96% of organisations experienced a crisis in the past two years. Those without plans suffered longer recovery times and greater reputational harm. With this in mind, now is the perfect opportunity to create a comprehensive crisis management plan designed to address a range of scenarios, from social media controversies to product recalls. Identify a response team that includes communications, legal, and leadership personnel trained to handle high-pressure situations and create up-to-date communications templates to reflect current risks and public expectations..
Good luck with your plan and wishing you success in 2025!
Can Pulse PR help your business? Get in touch at info@pulseprni.com
by pulseprni | Jan 14, 2025 | Clients
Pulse PR was delighted to work with fellow Catalyst tenant, TeamFeePay as it hosted an exclusive event to celebrate a year of remarkable growth, the opening of its new office and the expansion of its team. The evening served as an opportunity to thank key investors, partners, and stakeholders while sharing the company’s vision for the future and its ongoing mission to revolutionise grassroots football worldwide.
The event brought together leading companies and organisations from the business and football sectors. Among those in attendance were representatives from Salesforce, Vertical Structure, Kerr Insurance, Smooth Coms, Tughans, Catalyst, Invest NI, Deloitte, Founder Labs, New Belfast, and Axial 3D. Their continued support has been instrumental in driving TeamFeePay’s success and innovation in the sports tech space.
Speaking at the event, Liam McStravick, owner of TeamFeePay, said: “ We’re absolutely delighted with the turnout and the incredible support we’ve received throughout our journey so far. Our event is not only a celebration of what TeamFeePay has accomplished, but it’s a way of saying thank you to our grassroots football customers across the world, the hard work of our team and the unwavering belief of our partners and investors. Thank you to everyone who joined us – we’re excited for what’s ahead as we continue to change the game for grassroots football clubs across the world from our HQ here in Belfast.”
The event highlighted TeamFeePay’s growing reputation as a leader in both the football and business communities, underscoring the vital role of collaboration in its mission to transform grassroots football while driving innovation and growth.
Learn more about TeamFeePay here
by pulseprni | Nov 2, 2024 | Clients, Opinion
Grainne McGarvey| Pulse PR Director
I’ve been teaching a course at Ulster University for final-year PR students, where I share insights on the industry and exploring how professionals manage and shape the reputations of companies, brands, and individuals. As digital media continues to grow, the demand for skilled PR professionals is higher than ever. If you’re a student looking to break into this field, or thinking about moving into the industry, here is some practical advice to get you started.
Understand What PR Entails
Before working in any field, it’s essential to understand what the work involves. In PR, you’ll be responsible for crafting stories, communicating brand messages, and managing public perception. PR professionals work on tasks like writing press releases, coordinating media coverage, planning events, and managing social media. Researching PR industry standards, job roles, and specialisations, such as corporate PR, social media management, or crisis communication, will help you decide if it’s a good fit.
Build Foundational Skills
PR requires a unique set of skills. Here are some core skills to focus on:
- Writing and Communication: Strong writing skills are fundamental in PR, where clear messaging and persuasive writing can make a big difference. Take classes in journalism, creative writing, or business communication to build this skill.
- Research: Good PR relies on knowing your audience, your client’s industry, and the media landscape. Practice research by staying current on industry news and following trends.
- Public Speaking: PR often involves public speaking, media relations, and pitching ideas. Look for public speaking or debate clubs to practice.
- Social Media: Social media platforms are powerful tools in PR. Get familiar with social media strategy, engagement tactics, and analytics.
- Media Knowledge: Immerse yourself in local media. Understand the various outputs, know your market and be aware of journalists in the sector you are interested in.
Choose Relevant Coursework
Many universities offer PR courses, but if yours doesn’t have a dedicated PR programme, look for classes in:
- Journalism or Media Studies: These courses help you understand the media’s role, a crucial part of PR.
- Marketing and Communications: Marketing courses often cover branding, audience analysis, and storytelling—key skills in PR.
- Business Management or Ethics: These help you understand corporate structure and the ethical considerations in PR, especially in crisis management.
Gain Practical Experience through Internships
Internships are one of the most direct paths into the PR world. Many companies and agencies offer internship programs specifically for students, providing hands-on experience. To make the most out of a PR internship:
- Network and Learn: Connect with professionals in the agency or department. Observe how they handle media relations, create content, and interact with clients.
- Be Open to Various Tasks: Interns in PR often perform a wide range of tasks, from writing press releases to coordinating events. Embrace each task as a learning opportunity.
- Look for PR Internships Across Sectors: PR jobs exist in every industry, from fashion to tech to non-profits. Exploring multiple sectors during your internship period can give you a broad view of the PR landscape.
Create a Portfolio
A portfolio can showcase your skills and experience, which is especially helpful when applying for jobs. Your portfolio could include:
- Writing Samples: Include press releases, blog posts, articles, and other content you’ve created, whether for school, internships, or personal projects.
- Social Media Campaigns: If you’ve managed a social media account or campaign, highlight these efforts, detailing the engagement rates, follower growth, and campaign success.
- Projects or Case Studies: Document PR strategies you’ve developed, including the problem, approach, and results. A case study format can show employers how you tackle PR challenges.
Build Your Personal Brand
Show your familiarity with PR by managing your own online presence strategically. Employers often look at candidates’ social media profiles, so a well-curated LinkedIn, X, or personal blog can help you stand out. Here are some tips:
- Share Industry News and Trends: Show your awareness by sharing relevant news articles and your thoughts on current PR trends.
- Engage with PR Professionals Online: Follow and engage with PR agencies, industry leaders, and professional associations on LinkedIn and Twitter.
- Start a Blog or Website: Writing blog posts about PR topics or industry insights shows your passion and understanding.
Network in the Industry
Networking can make a significant difference in your job search. Start with simple steps:
- Attend Industry Events: Many PR organisations hold events, panels, and webinars open to students. These provide chances to meet professionals and learn about the industry’s latest developments.
- Use LinkedIn for Outreach: Don’t hesitate to reach out to PR professionals on LinkedIn. Ask for informational interviews to gain insights and career advice. Many people are happy to help students starting their careers.
Learn How to Pitch Yourself
Being able to confidently introduce yourself and discuss your skills is a core component of working in PR. Practice delivering a clear, concise pitch about your experience, interests, and goals. When networking or in interviews, this pitch can make a memorable impression and show that you have the communication skills essential to PR.
Stay Updated on Industry Trends
The PR industry is constantly evolving, especially with digital technology transforming the field. To keep up, make a habit of reading PR-related publications and blogs, such as PR Daily or PRWeek. You could also follow thought leaders in PR on LinkedIn and X to get real-time insights on industry trends.
Consider Freelance Work
If internships are hard to come by, try freelancing or volunteering. Offer your services to local non-profits, small businesses, or school clubs. Handling PR for these organisations can provide excellent experience, build your portfolio, and give you practical insights.
Keep Learning Beyond Graduation
PR is a dynamic field where new tools, platforms, and strategies constantly emerge. Continued education, such as taking online courses on media relations, SEO, or digital marketing, can help you stay ahead in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Entering the PR industry as a student requires dedication, networking, and continuous skill development. By gaining hands-on experience, building a strong portfolio, and cultivating your personal brand, you’ll set yourself apart in this competitive field. Starting early and being proactive will not only help you secure a PR role but also prepare you for a rewarding and dynamic career. Good luck!
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