Measuring PR

I apoligise for the late posting of this entry. It was actually written 2 weeks ago when my internet was playing up so i saved it and then forgot to post. Better late then never though.

We've all learnt how difficult it is to 'measure' the effectiveness of PR. But today was the first time I actually saw the implications of working in an industry which produces very few tangible results. We lost a client today, because they felt we weren't delivering on media coverage. The consultants in the office were frustrated and on edge all week as the storm had been brewing. Hearing them discuss if they could have done better, most were in agreement not to push weak angles to media contacts for fear of damaging relationships by wasting journalist's time with 'spun' stories. The client was in a lull period and disregarded all proposed action to generate some interest - yet still expected media coverage! As our Director explained to the receptionist the importance of media monitoring, "Ultimately that is what some of clients will judge us on."

The mood around the office was depleted today on word we had lost a client because in their eyes we failed to deliver. From what i've heard it was through no fault of our consultants. You win some, you lose some - you can't please everyone I suppose. But this threw light on a fact I had known, but failed to really recognise until this week.