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!

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