Public relations practitioners today need tools that are strategic and analytical. Fortunately, there are many resources available that help them manage tasks, streamline workflow, analyze data, share documents securely and track performance. Here is a look at some of the best PR must-haves out there today.
1. Social media management platform
Social media is mandatory for anyone in PR today, so a management platform is vital for any PR pro. It allows you to track all your social media channels in one place, schedule posts, monitor mentions and engage with your audience.
2. News monitoring and clipping service
Online reputation management takes top priority in public relations. A news monitoring and clipping service helps you keep tabs on what’s being said about your brand or industry in the news. This is a valuable tool for identifying and responding to negative press, as well as keeping track of positive mentions.
3. Press list
A press list is essential for any PR pro. It helps you keep track of the media outlets that cover your industry or beat, as well as the reporters and editors who write about it. This is an important resource for pitching story ideas and building relationships with key media contacts.
4. Content management system
Are you in charge of websites and blogs? A content management system (CMS) is helpful for anyone who creates and distributes content. It helps you manage all your content in one place, publish it to your website or blog and track its performance.
5. Email marketing software
Fast and consistent communication is expected in the industry. Email marketing software is key to staying in touch with your contacts and building relationships with the media. It helps you manage your contact lists, send newsletters and promotional materials and track the performance of your email campaigns.
6. Analytics tools
Analytics tools are necessary for any PR worker who wants to measure the impact of their work. There are many different types of analytics services available, from web tools that track website traffic to social media metrics that measure the reach and engagement of your social media posts.
7. Project management software
Project management software is a valuable tool for any PR pro who manages multiple projects at once. It helps you keep track of deadlines, assign tasks to team members, and monitor the progress of your projects.
8. CRM software
CRM software is a lifesaver for anyone who needs to manage their contacts and relationships. It helps you keep track of your contact list, send automated emails and messages and schedule follow-up calls and meetings. Saves time and prevents a lot of stress.
9. Collaboration tools
Collaboration tools are for working with a team and keeping everyone updated. They help you share documents and files, communicate with team members and track the progress of your projects.
10. Privacy protection
It is becoming increasingly important for PR professionals to have privacy protection tools to keep their communications and work confidential. There are many different privacy protection services available, from encrypted email services to password-protected document sharing tools. Choose what meet your needs and protect your confidential information.
11. Uninterrupted power supply
If you are reliant on your laptop, you’ll need to prepare for technical difficulties. An uninterrupted power supply (UPS) is an absolute must for any PR worker. A reliable battery back up ensures that you can keep working even if there’s a power outage or your computer crashes.
These are just a few of the many useful tools that PR professionals have at their disposal. By using these tools, you can streamline your workflow, manage your projects more effectively and measure the impact of your work.