Laerryblue Bags PR Manager award, shares insights on crafting successful campaign

Esteem Awards celebrated some of the brightest talents in the PR industry last night, and among the acclaimed winners was Olanrewaju Alaka, better known in the industry as Laerryblue, who took home the trophy for Best PR Manager of the Year.

Our reporters had the opportunity to sit down with Mr. Alaka after the ceremony, and he kindly shared his insights on what it takes to craft a successful PR campaign.
“Creating a successful PR campaign is not a walk in the park,” Alaka began. “It’s about having a strategic approach, from setting SMART objectives to defining your target audience.”

Laerryblue emphasized the importance of knowing your objectives and ensuring they’re Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. “This could be to increase brand awareness, improve reputation, launch a new product, or respond to a crisis,” he explained.

Understanding the target audience is also essential. “Consider their demographics, psychographics, consumer behaviors, and preferences,” he advised. “The more specifically you can define your target audience, the more likely your campaign will resonate.”

He further stressed the importance of a consistent core message, saying, “It should align with your objectives and be relevant to your target audience. Consistency is key; your message should be reinforced across all platforms and materials.”

When it comes to channel strategy, Laerryblue insists that one should “choose the appropriate channels to deliver your message. Depending on your target audience, this may include traditional media like TV, radio, print, digital media like social networks, blogs, emails, and live events.”

Laerryblue also highlighted the need for engaging content creation and solid media relations. “Develop compelling and relevant content that carries your message…build strong relationships with journalists, influencers, and others who can help spread your message.”

“Timing and coordination are crucial,” Alaka added, explaining the importance of planning when and how a campaign will roll out. “This includes coordination across different channels, potentially in different regions or time zones.”

Laerryblue also underlined the importance of monitoring and evaluation. “Keep track of your campaign’s progress. Use metrics relevant to your objectives, such as media mentions, social media engagement, website traffic, or changes in public perception. Use this data to adjust your campaign if necessary.”

Crises are not uncommon in the PR world, and according to Alaka, being prepared is key. “Have a plan in place for how to respond to crises, including who will speak for your organization and what they will say.”
Lastly, he stressed the importance of proper budgeting. “Make sure you allocate a budget for your campaign, covering all the different aspects from media buying, content creation to distribution.”

Laerryblue’s insightful advice undoubtedly underscores why he was recognized as the Best PR Manager of the Year. His strategic approach to public relations promises to guide the industry forward.