Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it so expensive to hire a PR or social media team?
Because good strategy takes time, consistency, and a lot of work that happens behind the scenes. You’re not just paying for someone to post content or send emails. You’re paying for their experience, their media contacts, and their understanding of what actually gets noticed. For most small businesses, you don’t need a full agency. You need the right foundation and enough knowledge to handle things yourself with confidence.
Can I handle my own PR and social media?
Probably, at least to start. Most small businesses don’t need a full-time PR firm or social media team. You just need to show up online consistently so people can find you. Media coverage and viral moments are great when they happen, but your real goal is steady visibility, not perfection.
What makes you different from a marketing agency?
A few things. I’m not going to lock you into a retainer, manage your accounts for you, or hand you a strategy deck you’ll never look at again. I teach you how to do this yourself so you’re never dependent on someone else to keep your business visible. My background is broadcasting, not advertising, which means I think like a storyteller first and a marketer second. That’s a different approach and for most small businesses it’s a more useful one.
What does a discovery call involve?
It’s a free 30-minute conversation, nothing more. No pitch, no pressure. We talk about your business, where you’re at with promotion right now, and what’s getting in the way. By the end you’ll have a clearer picture of where to focus, whether we work together or not.
Do you work with businesses outside Niagara?
Yes. I’m based in Niagara but I work with small business owners across Canada (and beyond!) virtually. If you’ve got a reliable internet connection, we can work together.
Do I need to be on every social media platform?
No. Start where your customers already are. A simple website and one active social platform is enough to begin building visibility. It’s better to show up consistently in one place than half-heartedly everywhere.
How do I promote my next event or show effectively?
If people keep telling you they didn’t know about your event, you’re not promoting it enough. Talk about it more often than feels comfortable, across social media, email, and in person. Mix in behind-the-scenes content, countdowns, and reminders so it doesn’t feel repetitive. People need to see something several times before it sticks.
How do I get media coverage for my small business or event?
Start with a story, not a sales pitch. Journalists and producers want something interesting, local, or genuinely useful to their audience. Figure out what makes your story newsworthy, then send a short, clear pitch with the key details: who, what, where, when, and why anyone should care.
How long until I see results?
That depends on where you’re starting and how consistently you show up. Most people notice a difference in their confidence and clarity within the first few weeks. Visible results like more website traffic, stronger engagement, or media coverage typically take a few months of consistent effort. There’s no shortcut, but there is a straightforward path.
I’m not “techy.” Can I still promote my business online?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be technical. You need a plan that matches your comfort level and someone to walk you through it at your pace. We start simple and build from there.
What should I post about on social media?
Talk about what’s happening in your business, introduce your team, share customer stories, or show what makes your product or service worth choosing. Honest and consistent beats polished and sporadic every time.
Still have questions? Book a free 30-minute discovery call and let’s talk. Don’t forget about my mailing list for tips on promoting your business and pitching media.