Starting a Public Relations Firm
Interview with Thomas Dodson, Founder of Dodson Consultants
Thomas Dodson founded a public relations firm that serves all industries. If you are considering starting a PR firm, you'll find some great tips from an entrepreneur who is a few steps ahead of you.
Mr. Dodson started his PR company, Dodson Consultants, in 2008 in Sacramento, California.
While many people believe that starting a PR firm is easy, it's actually difficult to build a longlasting, sustainable PR agency. We decided to find out how some folks who are doing it well are managing to grow their PR businesses.
Tell me about your current business. What are you doing exactly?
Dodson Consultants is a national PR firm. We work with clients from all industries and sectors.
What were you doing before this, and is this your first business?
I was the public relations manager for a national architecture and community planning firm. Yes, this is my first startup.
Who are your main competitors? How do you compete against them?
My main competitors are the typical large PR firms, both locally and nationally. I compete against them by being small and agile. I can go a little more guerilla on them. I also offer 100% transparent pricing. Nothing is hidden with Dodson Consultants. Everything is out in the open on our website, www.dodsonconsultants.com.
How has your experience in running the business been different from what you expected?
I have never kept my own books or anything like that, so being on the admin side is quite a bit different for me. It's also way more empowering than I ever imagined.
Is there anything you wish you had done differently?
To be honest, no, not really. I am pretty happy with our start.
What have you done that has been very effective in helping to grow the business?
My original announcement got picked up and used by the business columnist in the Sacramento Bee. From that blurb I landed several clients that helped tremendously as I started.
What advice would you give to somebody else who wanted to start a similar business?
Be ready to work! But also be ready to be rewarded.
Thanks for the tips! It sounds like Dodson Consultants is off to a strong start!
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