It’s time to bid farewell to 2022, though some days it still feels like we’ve been stuck in a time warp for the past few years. But, believe it or not, 2023 is just around the corner. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what the public relations landscape might look like in the new year. We do know one thing: The PR world is going to be very different. Our five predictions about the future of PR might just help you prepare for what lies ahead.
- AI-driven PR technology will become standard practice: Artificial intelligence (AI) has already made its way into many aspects of our lives and businesses, and in 2023 it will become even more commonplace. AI-driven technologies such as virtual agents, automated messaging systems, and sentiment analysis tools will become essential components of any successful public relations strategy. These technologies will allow companies to respond quickly to trends and opportunities while also enabling them to better monitor their brand reputation.
- Automation will replace manual work: In addition to AI-powered tools becoming standard practice in PR, automation will also become increasingly important. Automation technologies such as task management software and workflow solutions can reduce manual labor dramatically, freeing up resources that can be used on more strategic tasks instead. Not only will this increase efficiency, but it could also help organizations save money by reducing their need for manual labor costs.
- Media monitoring will be more accessible: Media monitoring has long been an important part of any good public relations strategy, but until recently it was often expensive and difficult to access real-time data on media coverage of your company or brand. However, advances in technology over the next two years will make media monitoring much easier for businesses of all sizes—even those with limited budgets—allowing them to track their progress and adjust their strategies accordingly without breaking the bank.
- Social media strategies will evolve: Social media is here to stay—and its importance for businesses looking to build strong relationships with their customers is only going to grow over the next two years as new platforms emerge and existing ones evolve. As a result, effective social media strategies will be key for any business looking to engage with its target audiences in meaningful ways that drive real results—such as increased website traffic or sales leads—over time.
- Influencer marketing will remain relevant: Despite being around since before 2020, influencer marketing remains one of the most effective ways for businesses to reach new audiences and build trust with potential customers. In 2023, brands should continue investing in influencers who align with their values and have influence over their target audience — especially those who have an established presence on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. This type of marketing can still yield impressive returns when done correctly, so don’t ignore it!
The future looks bright for public relations professionals—and there are plenty of exciting developments on the horizon if you’re willing to embrace change. By staying informed about emerging trends, leveraging new technologies, staying active on social media and utilising influencer marketing wisely, businesses can position themselves well-ahead of the competition come 2023.