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Why Cutting PR in Tough Times is a Costly Mistake (And What to Do Instead)

Posted on

03/17/2025

by

Leah Nurik

When budgets tighten, PR is often first on the chopping block. But here’s the truth: cutting PR is like ghosting your audience right when they need reassurance. Out of sight, out of mind—and that’s a dangerous place to be.

Here’s why pulling the plug on PR is the wrong move (and what you should do instead):

1. Reputation is Everything—Don’t Let It Fade

Your brand isn’t just what you sell—it’s what people believe about you. If you go radio silent, your competitors will gladly fill the void (and the headlines). Keep PR rolling to control your narrative, showcase wins, and reinforce credibility—because a strong brand weathers any storm.

2. Visibility Beats Vanishing

Customers aren’t pausing their needs just because the economic landscape is shaky. They’re still searching, scrolling, and spending—will they find you or your competitor? PR ensures your name stays in the conversation, landing media coverage, social buzz, and authority in your industry.

3. Trust Takes Time—Don’t Hit Reset

Public relations is a long game. The relationships you build with journalists, industry influencers, and customers don’t just bounce back when you decide to “turn PR back on.” Keep the momentum going, or risk starting from scratch.

4. Cutting PR to “Save Money” is Like Skipping the Gym and Expecting to Stay Fit

Yes, you’ll free up some cash today, but you’ll lose muscle in the long run—brand equity, credibility, and lead generation all take a hit. Instead of cutting PR entirely, get strategic:

  • Secure High-Impact Media Placements – Prioritize quality over quantity by targeting top-tier outlets that reach your ideal audience and maximize brand visibility.
  • Publish Contributed Articles – Share expert insights in respected publications to establish authority, increase credibility, and keep your brand top of mind—all on your own terms.
  • Amplify & Repurpose Content Across Platforms – Extend the life of your content by adapting press releases, blog posts, and thought leadership pieces into social media posts, videos, and email campaigns.
  • Leverage Thought Leadership – Position key executives as industry experts through interviews, panel discussions, and expert commentary to build trust and authority.
  • Pursue Industry Awards – Winning top industry honors provides third-party validation, boosts credibility, attracts media attention, and sets you apart from competitors. 

PR Isn’t a Nice-to-Have. It’s a Must-Have.

When the market rebounds (and it will), will you be a brand people remember—or one they forgot?

At GMG, we don’t just do PR. We craft powerful, results-driven campaigns that keep your brand visible, valuable, and ahead of the curve.

Schedule a consultation with us today and get started with a strategic, high-impact PR plan that keeps your brand in the spotlight—no matter the economic climate.

From the Blog

Leah Nurik
03/27/2025