5 Reasons Why You Need Strategy Before PR

"Can you get us some press coverage?"

We hear it all the time. And while the short answer is technically “yes,” our real response is always: "Let’s talk strategy first." Here’s why.

In today’s noisy media landscape, getting your brand name in print (or pixels) isn’t enough. Without a proper PR strategy, you’re just shouting into the void—worse, you could even be saying the wrong thing to the wrong people at the wrong time. Not ideal, right?

So, let’s break down the five reasons why strategy isn’t just the first step in PR—it is the step that makes the rest of the journey worthwhile.

1. Journalists Don’t Want Features—They Want a Story

We know you're proud of your product (and so you should be). But journalists aren’t out here publishing product catalogues. They’re looking for narratives, angles, and relevance. A strong PR strategy builds a story framework that explains not just what your company does, but why it matters right now.

👉 Without a narrative, your outreach is just a glorified sales pitch. And trust us—those go straight in the bin.

2. PR Amplifies Your Positioning (For Better or Worse)

Public relations shines a massive spotlight on your brand. But if your messaging isn’t clear, consistent, and intentional, that spotlight can get a little… unflattering.

👉 A strategic foundation ensures your PR reinforces your core positioning. Otherwise, you risk confusing your audience—or worse, diluting your brand altogether.

3. Timing Is Everything

Yes, getting press feels urgent. But rushing into it too early can actually damage media relationships. A good PR strategy helps identify inflection points—those golden moments when your story has the most impact.

👉 Strategic timing means your launch, partnership, or product drop doesn’t just make a splash, it makes waves.

4. Strategy Aligns All Channels

When PR lives in its own little silo, you end up with disconnected messaging and missed opportunities. But when PR, content, and paid acquisition all pull from the same strategic playbook? Magic.

👉 Unified strategy = consistent messaging = multiplied impact.

5. Strategy Makes Results Measurable

Vanity metrics like impressions and “brand buzz” don’t cut it anymore. With the right strategy in place, PR efforts can be tied directly to business goals—think lead gen, customer acquisition, or investor interest.

👉 When strategy leads the way, PR becomes a business driver, not just a highlight reel.

Ready to Go Beyond Just "Getting Press"?

At Cittadina, we build PR programs that perform—fuelled by sharp strategy and backed by years of experience turning brand stories into front-page-worthy moments. Whether you're a fast-growth tech startup or a small business with a big message, we’re here to make sure your PR actually moves the needle.

Want to get seen and make it count? Let’s build the strategy first.