From day one, the goal was always to create an amazing agency that put its people first while delivering epic work for clients. Back in 2014, when there was just me, a laptop, oodles of ambition and an empty office, in walked Jolene Kelly who took a punt on me, as I did on her.
Fast forward ten years, and this is Jolene’s last week at RNN 🙁
Over the past ten years, there have been multiple award wins, tremendous highs, challenging days, two weddings, two house moves, an office move and a team that has grown to what it is today.
There have been so many milestone moments including the day the world stopped turning in March 2020 - when we really came together as a team - the launch of fetch Ireland which Jolene spearheaded from day one – and random things like Jolene and my presentation on influencer marketing to an audience of 500. I agreed to this one, unbeknown to Jolene, who in all fairness was terrified (just like me) but gave it stacks and was awesome, even if she was a little green beforehand 😊
So here’s the thing – I’m a little sad and change is unsettling for all, including the team who love working alongside Jolene day in, day out. She’s our IT go-to, the Queen of puns and one-liners, the strong and stable voice of reason and the owner of the messiest desk at RNN.
So yes, I’m sad but I’m also excited and grateful. Why?
I have enjoyed ten years of loyalty, commitment and friendship from Jolene. She has grown as a person and communications professional. Sure, Jolene even wears the badge of professionalism that is Chartership, the top accolade within our profession.
Jolene has helped me to grow, and fail, and then learn and grow again as a leader.
So what more can I ask of her? I feel entirely grateful to have met Jolene and for Jolene to become an integral part of RNN’s growth and success. Jolene is heading off into the sunset this Friday to start a new chapter in her life, and I’m excited for her, excited for what’s next for our very own ‘JK’ and one thing is for sure, Jolene is ALWAYS welcome at RNN (actually, should we get a plaque??)
OK, so sad face again, but we move.
My excitement is also borne from new energy. Change is a certainty, and with change comes opportunity. As someone who aims to live life with the glass always half full, a new talented PR person is about to arrive at RNN. With their arrival will come new ideas, skills, drive and energy. Evolution is good for all businesses but that said, Jolene will be missed by us all.
So this week, we celebrate Jolene. So many of our clients and wider supplier network have worked with Jolene over the years, and I hope you all join me and Team RNN in saying ‘THANK YOU, it’s been a true pleasure’.
So as one door shuts, another one opens. I’ll leave this to the next newsletter as content is king right? Think I’ve heard that somewhere before.
Over and out,
RN
What if we told you that scoring a 5% click-through rate (CTR) in email marketing is akin to taking home a gold medal at the Olympics? In fact, if your email CTR hovers anywhere between 2% and 5%, you're already playing in the big leagues!
Surprised? You’re not alone. It’s not every day you hear that a 5% success rate is something to celebrate. But in the realm of email marketing, those numbers are pure gold. Let’s dive into why email marketing is such a valuable tool…
The Secret Sauce of Email Marketing
Email marketing isn’t just about sending a message; it’s about building relationships and engaging with your audience on a personal level. Unlike social media posts that might get lost in the noise or a website that relies on visitors finding it, email lands directly in your audience's inbox. It’s like having a direct line to your audience.
Why Click-Through Rates Matter
A click-through rate of 5% might not sound impressive at first glance, but let’s put it into perspective. Think of it like this: If you send an email to 1,000 people and 5% click on your links, that's 50 individuals taking action. These aren’t just random clicks—they are potential clients, customers, or fans who are interested in what you have to say. Each click is a foot in the door, a step towards building a connection, and an opportunity to turn interest into engagement.
The Power of Personalization
One of the biggest perks of email marketing is the ability to personalize messages for your audience. Personalization can skyrocket your engagement rates. When you tailor content to your audience's preferences, needs, and behaviours, you make them feel valued and understood. Plus, who doesn’t love a birthday reminder 😊?
Dynamic Content
Using dynamic content, you can tailor the email experience for each subscriber. Whether it’s recommending products based on past purchases or sending tailored messages based on user behaviour, the possibilities are endless. This personalized touch increases the chances that your audience will not only open your emails but also click on your links.
Email: The Underdog of Digital Marketing
In the flashy world of social media and viral videos, email marketing can seem like the unsung hero of digital marketing. But here’s the truth: email marketing can have the highest return on investment (ROI) of any marketing channel.
Now, this obviously depends on the business, what you’re offering, how big your list is, and if you have good content to share. If you’re an eCommerce website, your customer-base might react positively to transactional emails, meaning a great email blast could yield huge dividends.
For a B2B company, however, your ROI might be more closely tied to broader lead nurturing goals as the customer journey is typically a bit longer. In these cases, you may be better off working on a content marketing campaign or simply building brand awareness.
Building Trust and Loyalty
Consistent, high-quality email communication builds trust and loyalty with your audience. By sharing valuable content, news, and offers, you position yourself as an expert in your field. Over time, this consistent presence strengthens your brand’s reputation and fosters customer loyalty.
Four Fun Ways to Boost Your Email Engagement
Email marketing may not always grab the headlines, but it can be a powerhouse in your strategy. With impressive click-through rates and unbeatable ROI, it’s an essential tool for building relationships, driving engagement, and boosting your brand. So, if your email CTR is sitting at 5% or higher, give yourself a high five—you’re already winning in the email marketing game.
Happy Emailing!
Ever wondered why some conversations flow effortlessly while others feel like you’re speaking entirely different languages?
Understanding human behaviour is the cornerstone of communication. The DISC model is a framework that sheds light on the intricacies of human interactions - developed by William Moulton Marston, a physiological psychologist with a PhD from Harvard. His 1928 book, Emotions of Normal People established the theories that were later developed by many others. The DISC (sometimes called DISA) model categorises behaviour into four main types:
Have you heard about DISC profiling? We recently participated in a training session led by Peter Magee from ActionCOACH, focusing on the DISC approach to understanding human behaviour. This eye-opening experience not only shed light on our own communication styles but also highlighted how this knowledge can enhance our interactions both personally and professionally.
The Power of DISC in Communication
Understanding your audience is key in communications, and if you intend to communicate with impact, you will need to understand your audience. There are many ways to segment audiences. The DISC method focuses on four different personality types to help you identify who you are communicating with and, most importantly, how to adapt your communication style to really connect. This method also explores how each type works well with others and, in some dynamics, does not work well with another personality type.
In life, you cannot always decide who you work with, so understanding DISC offers helpful advice on navigating and communicating in relationships where personality styles have innate conflict. Let’s dig deeper.
Dominance (D): These individuals are assertive, results-oriented, and enjoy challenges. When communicating with them, be direct and focus on the bottom line.
CEOs and high-powered executives often fall into this personality type. They tend to be
Influence (I): People with this style are social, persuasive, and enthusiastic. They thrive on positive interactions, so keep the conversation upbeat and engaging.
Sales and business development executives often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
Steadiness (S): These individuals are patient, reliable, and good listeners. When communicating, be warm and sincere, and provide them with ample time to process information.
Account Managers, and HRs, often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
Conscientiousness (C): Detail-oriented and analytical, people with this style appreciate structure and accuracy. In your interactions, be precise and provide them with data to support your points.
Finance Controllers often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
In a perfect work environment, every team should have each type represented for optimal results. It’s also important for each to occupy the right role to have them thrive.
However, there is no perfect behaviour type. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Any behavioural type can backfire if it’s applied in the wrong situation or if it’s taken to an extreme.
The key to communication starts with self-awareness. Understanding yourself and how you prefer to communicate is critical to you and those who work alongside you. Developing empathy and taking the time to understand the different types in your team is what makes a dream team.
Can You Guess Our Profiles?
Here’s a fun challenge: Can you guess the DISC profiles of the staff here at RNN Comms? Our team is a dynamic mix of personalities, each bringing something unique to the table. Share your guesses with us 👀
In the ever-evolving world of public relations, establishing your brand or key team members as thought leaders is not just beneficial—it's essential. Thought leadership allows you to showcase expertise, gain credibility, and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Over the years at RNN Communications, we have helped numerous clients from a range of sectors to build up their profile as an industry expert or thought leader in their field.
Here, I'll share insights on how you can do the same through strategic content creation, leveraging speaking opportunities, and engaging with industry influencers.
Thought leadership is about more than just being knowledgeable; it's about being recognised as a go-to expert in your field. It involves contributing new ideas, providing unique insights, and leading discussions that shape industry trends.
Content is King
Yes, that old chestnut – Content is King, but it actually IS! Creating high-quality, insightful content is the backbone of thought leadership. This content should not only inform and educate, but also inspire your audience and encourage discussion.
Consider these types of content:
Consistency and Authenticity
Regularly publish content to maintain visibility and demonstrate your ongoing commitment to your industry. Authenticity builds trust; always ensure your content reflects your genuine expertise and values.
Securing Speaking Engagements
Speaking at conferences, webinars, and panels is a powerful way to demonstrate expertise and engage directly with your audience and other professionals. Here's how to secure valuable speaking slots:
Utilising Virtual Platforms
In today's digital age, webinars and virtual conferences offer a platform to reach a global audience. These opportunities are particularly valuable for building a presence beyond your immediate geographical area.
Identifying Key Influencers
Connect with individuals who influence your industry. These might be other thought leaders, journalists, or even academic experts.
Collaborative Opportunities
Engage with these influencers by:
Case Studies and Success Stories
Illustrate your expertise with real-world examples of how your advice or approach has led to client success. Case studies not only demonstrate your ability to deliver results but also make your advice tangible and relatable.
Testimonials
Leverage testimonials from past clients or collaborators to validate your expertise and the impact that your expertise and knowledge had on their business or project.
Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
As a thought leader, you must stay informed about the latest developments and shifts in your industry. Regularly:
Adapting Content Strategy
Based on feedback and industry changes, be ready to adapt your content strategy to continue meeting the needs and interests of your audience in a fresh and engaging way.
Building thought leadership is a dynamic and ongoing process. It demands dedication, authenticity, and a strategic approach to content creation, networking, and public engagement. Start laying the foundations today and watch as you transform from an industry participant to an established expert in your field.
Remember, in the realm of PR, your reputation as a thought leader can be your strongest asset. Embrace these strategies and take your place at the forefront of your industry!
At the start of this blog journey, I promised to be honest and authentic in my musings and this is still true today. I’ve had a holiday and with that brings time to reflect - amongst other things, I’ve been thinking about agency life, the agency rollercoaster, what it takes to build a great agency, and how we can deliver value for clients.
Agency life is quite unique. We charge for our time, similar to accountancy, the legal profession etc but the difference is that working with a PR agency is a choice. I would argue that it’s imperative to all businesses, however, it’s not critical in the same vein as ensuring compliance with accountancy or needing legal counsel.
Agency Life is tough. So yes, it’s ‘PR not ER’ - correct and something we need to remind ourselves of daily - but it’s a demanding, fast-paced profession and our success is based on performance.
In the past week, I have met several business associates who have commented how “RNN is flying”, “your business is amazing”, “you’re winning everything”…
As we all know yet sometimes forget to recognise, social media is a highlight reel of our business. Behind the images and graphics is a committed team that works hard every day to deliver for clients and the agency. We really care – we care about clients, how we can add value, how we can ensure every campaign is exceptional, give the best advice etc etc.
For me as the agency owner, in addition to the above, it’s also essential that I ‘mind our team’, show leadership, ensure the invoices go out (and are paid), monitor performance, conduct appraisals and schedule training, manage recruitment, spin the plates of new business, onboard new clients, manage clients departing (and they do from time to time), meet new contacts within client businesses and explaining who we are / what we do / how we support them, networking and so on…
It's all-encompassing. It’s full-on. It’s a rush and takes a certain personality type to thrive on the hustle. I do, and have done for many years, but it’s important not to be complacent and to be mindful and protective of our energy.
Why is this important:
A Women in PR survey in October 2023 revealed that:
Over a long career, I have seen ‘burnout’ from others many times. Often those who started out in PR, particularly females, either leave the profession at a certain age or take in-house roles. Agency life is an amazing backbone for any businessperson, and so many of my former colleagues have gone on to start their own businesses in various sectors, and to much success.
In PR Agency land, there’s no time for ‘quiet periods’ or to take your foot off the gas. Why is this? Even though many of you readers know us well, sometimes it’s worth a reminder of exactly how we get paid and how agency life works.
We get paid for the work we deliver within an agreed time period. For this model to work, it means that the time we have committed to work for a client (e.g. 30 hours per month) needs to match what we deliver.
Why this can be problematic:
There are also elements of what we do that are challenging to measure value – ideas, often business ideas, crisis management, OOHs calls, ad hoc advice…. the list goes on.
How can we do better:
So when you hear us talking about client hours, contracts, KPIs please do understand that this is our currency. That’s why we must have contracts in place, notice periods etc.
We’re unlike many public-facing businesses that have 0000s of clients. We have a select number of clients with whom we’re 100% committed to delivering the best work, supporting them personally and professionally, and with the overarching goal of helping our clients to excel. You know you can count on us in the good times, and importantly the bad.
SO IN A NUTSHELL, THIS IS PR. THIS IS AGENCY.
We’re made of strong stuff, we hustle and we work in partnership with clients - always!
And we appreciate every single one of our clients. We’re part of the extended team and nothing pleases us more than when our clients excel.
As always, if you have any questions or thoughts on the above, please do let me know.
Over and out,
Riki
Here’s the thing…we are anything but average.
We’re unconventional, try new things, go with our gut, and we’re bold and brave. We’re not for everyone but if this sounds like the kind of comms agency that appeals to you, keep on reading!
This could be your time to shine at RNN - and to really make your mark.
Listen up Account Directors / Senior Account Managers - if you’re interested in a role at RNN, here’s what we expect from you:
****
Reporting to the MD, you'll be a key player in RNN Communications' success and growth. You’ll lead the charge in client services, build strong relationships, pitch exciting projects, and ensure everything runs smoothly and profitably.
You'll juggle leadership and hands-on project management, making you essential to our team. You'll embody our agency's values, ensuring we deliver on our promises to clients.
Ready to join the RNN rollercoaster? Let's make magic happen together! Read on to find out more about the role…
Key Points and Requirements:
Responsibilities:
Qualifications & Experience:
Skills & Abilities:
Other Points:
Benefits:
At RNN Communications, we believe in rewarding hard work with fantastic benefits that make life more enjoyable and balanced. Here’s what you can look forward to:
🌟 Four-Day Work Week: Enjoy a long weekend every week! Work four days and get paid for five. That’s an extra 40+ days off per year – talk about work-life balance!
💰 Solid Salary: We offer a competitive salary that recognises your skills and experience.
🎉 Bonuses Galore: Earn new business bonuses, annual bonuses, and more. Your hard work and hustle will be rewarded!
🕺 Fun & Creative Environment: Be part of a vibrant, energetic team where creativity and fun are at the heart of everything we do.
🌍 Travel Opportunities: Work across Ireland with opportunities to travel and experience new places.
📈 Career Growth: Be part of a bold and brave agency that values your ambition and supports your professional development.
Join us at RNN and be a part of a team that values creativity, flexibility, and fun. Let's make a mark together!
Move fast, that's how we roll! Deadline: Friday 19th July 2024
If you have any questions or wish to apply for the role, please email: riki@rnncommunications.com
This AI charter has been introduced to ensure that we use artificial intelligence ethically and responsibly within our PR Agency and that we are open, honest and transparent about when and how we use it. We understand that going forward AI could prove beneficial to our company, improving our efficiency, but only if used appropriately.
At RNN, the team commits to:
2. Ethical considerations and risk prevention will always be at the forefront for us when utilising an AI tool. We will always be cautious in our approach to AI.
3. At RNN, we request that our clients disclose to us if any of their feedback and amendments to agency work has been generated or suggested by AI tools.
4. We will openly share information to our clients on what AI tools we use in our company, should the client request it.
5. Accountability – It is the responsibility of all staff within the company to comply with this AI policy. Any violations of the AI policy will be addressed promptly and appropriately. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions, including but not limited to additional training, formal warnings, or other measures deemed necessary to ensure adherence to the policy. Regular audits and reviews will be conducted to ensure compliance and to identify any areas for improvement. It is essential that all employees understand their role in upholding these standards and actively participate in maintaining the ethical use of AI within the organisation.
6. This policy will be reviewed and revised annually to ensure it is up to date with best practice advice and the development of new technologies.
Full disclosure – we have used AI to assist us with this AI Policy.
June 2024
