Rick Purnell: Strategic Communication in Ag | Ep. 53
Sep 5, 2024
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Rick Purnell, Managing Director of Communications at RPR Company, shares his extensive experience in agricultural media relations. He discusses the evolving landscape of communication strategies and the importance of strong media relationships. Rick highlights the shift from traditional methods to digital formats, emphasizing the need for tailored messaging. He reflects on sustainability and animal welfare in agriculture, advocating for effective communication that balances education with promotion. Tune in for insights on navigating media dynamics in the industry!
The evolution in communication strategies necessitates a focus on delivering concise digital content tailored to specific media preferences.
Building strong relationships with media influencers is essential for enhancing message visibility and fostering trust in the agricultural community.
Deep dives
Evolution of Media Communication
The communication approach with media outlets has significantly changed over the years, focusing on providing clear and concise information. In the past, lengthy press releases and printed materials were the norm, but today’s emphasis is on delivering bite-sized content through digital formats. This shift requires an understanding of each media contact's preferences, as different editors and broadcasters may have unique expectations for how they receive information. Establishing and nurturing relationships with media influencers is crucial, making it essential to know who they are and the type of content they seek.
Balancing Education and Promotion
Successfully balancing educational content with promotional goals involves ensuring that the messaging is grounded in factual information while emphasizing the benefits to the end user. By highlighting product advantages that resonate with the audience—such as improved livestock health or sustainable practices—companies can communicate the value of their offerings without overtly pushing for sales. For instance, discussing best practices for vaccine administration illustrates how a product contributes to better animal welfare and ethical industry standards. This holistic approach fosters lasting relationships between suppliers, consumers, and the broader agricultural community.
Building Strong Media Relationships
Effective strategies for cultivating long-lasting relationships with media channels include thorough research and understanding of each outlet's operational style. Tailoring communications to meet the specific needs and preferences of individual media figures fosters trust and cooperation, which can enhance the visibility of a client’s message. Regularly engaging with media influencers, and providing them with tailored content that meets their audience's interests, ensures that both parties benefit. This collaborative dynamic supports the goal of informing the agricultural community while simultaneously driving business success for clients.
In this episode of the Wisenetix Podcast, Rick Purnell, Managing Director of Communications at RPR Company, brings his wealth of experience in media relations within the agriculture industry to the table. Rick talks about the changing landscape of communication strategies, the value of building strong relationships with media outlets, and how to effectively match your messaging with current industry trends. Tune in for an engaging conversation on navigating the complexities of media dynamics in agriculture. Catch the episode on your favorite platform!
"How we deliver information to media channels has evolved, but the core principles remain unchanged."
𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁: Rick Purnell, Managing Director of Communications at RPR Company, holds a B.S. in Agricultural Communications from Oklahoma State University. With over 21 years at RPR, Rick specializes in strategic communications, media relations, and agricultural issues. He has led successful media campaigns and developed outreach programs, earning recognition for his work in sustainability and animal welfare.