How Start-Ups are Building A Strong Public Image

In today's highly competitive business landscape, establishing a strong public image is crucial for start-ups looking to build credibility, attract customers, and drive growth. Public relations (PR) and personal branding play a critical role in shaping how a business is perceived by its audience, stakeholders, and the wider market. Effective PR strategies can therefore enhance visibility, foster trust, and create opportunities for collaboration and investment. With the rise of digital platforms and social media, founders are increasingly recognising the importance of managing their brand presence to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Data from over 1200 founders who entered the 2024 UK Startup Awards shows that 65% of start-ups handle their PR and personal branding in-house, reflecting a strong preference for managing communications internally, likely due to cost constraints and the need for direct control. About 10% of founders engage an external agency for PR, while 5% adopt a hybrid approach, combining in-house efforts with external expertise. In addition, 9% of respondents are interested in starting or enhancing their PR efforts, suggesting an awareness of the importance of public relations but indicating that resources or strategic focus may currently be limiting full engagement.