How to Use PR to Build a Strong personal Brand
I had a great time with Lillian Ogbogoh on her Shine Out Loud podcast show discussing all things PR, Crisis management, personal brand and the impact of social media on PR. The Shine Out Loud Show, is a podcast which celebrates and connects with incredible creatives individuals within the Black, Asian and Mixed heritage community across the UK and further afield. Lillian Ogbogoh interviews new and established creators who are changing the landscape of business, entertainment, and creative designs and are stepping into their own and defining what it means to Shine out Loud!
As I reflect on my podcast appearance, I’m reminded of how important it is for entrepreneurs, professionals and business owners to understand the power of public relations (PR) in building a solid social brand. In the age of social media, PR often gets overshadowed by the allure of instant fame or viral content. However, if you really want to create a long-lasting, impactful brand, integrating PR into your social media strategy is essential.
I was excited to talk about how PR and social media complement each other, and why building a social brand goes far beyond simply gaining followers or creating viral moments. Social media is powerful, but it's PR that can elevate your message, create authentic connections, and sustain your relevance over time. When these two elements work hand in hand, you create a brand that resonates deeply with your audience, leading to trust and loyalty.
One of the key points I discussed in the episode is how PR has evolved. Traditionally, PR was often viewed as just getting press coverage or managing media relationships. But now, PR is much broader—it’s about shaping narratives and fostering conversations around your brand, even on social media platforms. A well-executed PR strategy is about being intentional with your messaging, ensuring that the right people are engaging with your content, and that your story aligns with your brand values.
For example, when you post on social media, think about what you want your audience to know and feel about your brand. Are you being consistent in how you represent yourself? Are you building relationships with influencers and media that can help amplify your voice? PR is about cultivating those relationships over time, so that your audience sees the real value in your business, and trusts you as a credible source.
Another important aspect of PR that I shared is the power of storytelling. In today’s world, people are drawn to authentic stories. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, influencer, or small business owner, the key to building a strong social brand is to craft a compelling narrative. Social media platforms give you the opportunity to share your story directly with your audience, but it’s PR that helps you define that story and share it consistently across different channels.
When you think about the stories you want to tell, focus on what makes you unique. What are your values? What’s your brand mission? These are the elements that will differentiate you from the noise of social media and attract people who believe in what you stand for. The stronger your narrative, the more powerful your brand becomes.
Trust is the foundation of any successful brand, and this is where PR really shines. PR helps build credibility for your brand by securing third-party endorsements, media coverage, and partnerships that validate your expertise. While social media allows you to communicate directly with your audience, it’s the trust that comes from being featured in credible outlets or being recommended by respected figures that solidifies your brand’s reputation.
I always emphasize that brand credibility isn’t built overnight. It takes time, effort, and a strong PR strategy. By regularly engaging with your audience, sharing consistent messages, and being transparent about your journey, you can build the kind of trust that turns followers into long-term supporters.
In the podcast, I also stressed the importance of being strategic. Social media is fast-paced, but PR requires a more thoughtful, long-term approach. By using PR to build a solid foundation for your brand, you ensure that your social media presence doesn’t just fade away after a few viral posts but stands the test of time.
So, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your brand to the next level, remember this: Social media might give you the platform, but PR gives you the purpose. Together, they can transform your brand into something truly impactful.
Tune into the episode here: Listen to "With Ronke Lawal and how to use PR to build a Solid Social Brand in the age of Social Media" on Spreaker.
