What I wish I knew before taking the plunge to start a PR agency

Back in 2021, I took a leap of faith and launched a public relations (PR) and social media agency.

This came after a stint at 9News Melbourne as an assistant to the chief of staff and social media producer. Across both roles, I oversaw and supported every element of the newsroom, quickly learning how to craft compelling stories that make it to air.

Despite previously dreaming of being a TV reporter, I soon learnt that news wasn’t for me. I quit my job with nothing lined up and felt lost for some time before realising that I could leverage my wealth of media experience to help businesses and thought leaders generate buzz.

Here’s what I wish I knew before making it official.

The importance of patience

Starting a business is one thing. Securing clients is another.

While social media may be filled with get-rich-quick schemes, it takes time and patience to build a profitable business. To this day, I like to remind myself that there’s no such thing as an overnight success.

Being a publicist in itself also requires a lot of patience – let’s just say you face a lot of rejection along the way. Yet time and time again, I’ve seen that persistence pays off.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint

The world of PR and social media never stops. Tie that in with being a business owner and burnout is sure to creep in.

I wish I knew earlier that sustaining momentum over the long-term is much more important than quick wins. Now, I am getting better at prioritising my health and understanding that you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Ask for help

Since my time at university, I’ve always had a mentor. What I didn’t consider until recently though, was engaging a mentor who has built the kind of business I want to have.

Last year I did just that, learning from an agency owner I admire. This experience helped me identify and bridge gaps in my knowledge, while also understanding the best processes and systems for success.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people who have done what you want to do. Sure, you can wait to figure it out yourself, but it may take you years to learn what someone can advise you on in just a few conversations.

Mistakes are part of the process

In PR and social media, image is everything. Mistakes result in issues and crises, which we do our best to avoid.

But life isn’t perfect (and neither is running a business). Things will go wrong – it’s all part of the journey.

Much like a client’s response to an issue or crisis, it’s how you deal with the situation and learn from it that matters most.

Get networking now!

I started Honey Buzz PR from a co-working space called The Commons. In my early days, I would go to the office to work and keep to myself.

It took me about a year before I started actively attending any community events. I wish I had done this sooner, as connecting with people from across all industries has been enriching, to say the least.

Being open to networking with anyone and everyone – from those in and around your business, to others – is a game-changer. Focus on adding value to those you meet without any expectations in return.

Running a PR and social media agency hasn’t been easy, but it’s been the most rewarding personal and professional endeavour. I wish I knew just how life-changing it would be.