In her first DBJ bylined article, PRSA Colorado President Gina Seamons makes the argument that investing in public relations during tough economic times can be a powerful competitive advantage:
“Businesses can’t afford to leave customers behind during the recession and then find new ones after the economy rebounds. The cost to acquire a new customer is five to 10 times greater than the cost of retaining an existing one, according to research by Bain & Co.”
I agree completely and I’m not even a PR person. The fact is, when the economy gets tight, it’s all the more reason to ensure that your company is out in the public eye. Be careful with your budget, yes, but don’t do what my Mum would say “is cutting off your nose to spite your face”.