PR reps have a tendency to think in words – sending off a daily barrage of press releases, emails, articles, thank-yous and 140 character updates. Though when it comes to promotion, we follow up with images. We send along promotional pictures for pre- and post-event pieces and encourage party guests to take and post pictures on social media. Visuals have a huge impact on PR efforts, and they are absolutely essential components of events and marketing campaigns both on and offline. Here are a few tips and best practices on how to leverage images to work for your benefit.
1. Show, don’t tell. The best writing strives to paint an image – so why not make your words work for you by showing, instead of telling. It’s a whole lot easier to express how fun your event is going to be by simply using photos from the previous year. Attach hi-res photos and flyers in prospective media emails and embed pictures in official press releases and email campaigns. Don’t forget to update your website’s press page with plenty of images for public use. Don’t forget the courtesy or source included!
2. Make it stick. 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual, and it so happens that over half of the population learns visually. As humans, we’re much more likely to remember things that we’ve seen over things we’ve read or heard. Want that news person to remember your event above other calendar commitments? Send him or her an e-invite that’s attractive and memorable!
3. Get connected. Images boost both engagement and visibility on social media in a big way. Studies shows that status updates and tweets including a photo receive more interaction and, as a result, more impressions than text-only posts. Grab hold of followers’ attention with exciting imagery and promotional flyers that display the facts in an interesting way.
4. Offer directives. If you want an audience that’s well-informed, images are a great way to educate the masses on everything from hashtags to parking and directions to incentives and special offers. Custom signs and flyers can be used to thank event sponsors, provide descriptions of raffle prizes or display food and beverage options. Follow up with recurring images online and in person to drive home important information and remind folks of noteworthy items.
How else do you use images to enhance your marketing and PR efforts?
