GEC PR Turns 9: The PR Lessons That Shaped Us

By Company Director Fiona Anderson

This April, GEC PR turns nine. Nine years of storytelling, strategy, media moments, client wins, creative sparks, and the kind of behind‑the‑scenes graft that only a PR agency truly understands. When we launched GEC PR back in 2017, Sarah and I knew we wanted to build something different: a specialist travel, lifestyle and B2B PR agency that combined big‑agency thinking with the agility, warmth and partnership‑first approach of a boutique consultancy.

Nine years later, that vision feels more alive than ever.

So, to celebrate our birthday, we’ve done something a little special. We sat down together to record a brand‑new GEC PR podcast episode, where we share the nine biggest PR learnings we believe every business should know. These are the insights we’ve gained from nearly a decade of working with brilliant brands, navigating a shifting media landscape, and helping clients tell stories that genuinely move the needle.

But before you head off to watch the episode, here’s a little preview of what we cover.

Our 9 Key Learnings for Great PR

Over the years, we’ve learned that great PR isn’t about shouting the loudest. It’s about clarity, consistency, creativity and connection. In the podcast, we break down each learning in detail, but here’s a snapshot:

1. Know your story

If you’re not clear on your narrative, your audience won’t be either. Strong PR starts with a strong sense of self.

2. Understand your target customer

Who are you speaking to? What do they care about? What problem do you solve for them?

3. Plan ahead

PR works best when it’s proactive, not reactive. A content plan is your best friend.

4. Don’t be afraid of media engagement

Journalists aren’t scary—they’re partners. Media coverage gives you credibility you simply can’t buy.

5. Remember: not all media conversations happen live

Some of the best opportunities happen over email. Thoughtful written responses can be just as powerful as interviews.

6. Invest in great visuals

Strong photography and video elevate your story instantly. They’re not optional anymore.

7. Understand how AI values authoritative content

Editorial and PR-led content is more important than ever. Quality, credibility and expertise win.

8. Explore partnerships

Collaborating with brands who share your audience can save time, money and effort -and amplify your reach.

9. Enter awards

Awards build trust, visibility and industry recognition. They’re worth the effort.

Why These Lessons Matter

These aren’t just tips – they’re the principles that have shaped how we work at GEC PR. They’ve helped us support clients through launches, crises, rebrands, global campaigns and everything in between. They’re the foundation of the results we’re proud of and the relationships we’ve built.

And now, as we celebrate nine years, we’re excited to share them with you in a more personal, conversational way.

Watch the Full Podcast Episode – https://youtu.be/llUyx1wTbJo

If you’d like to hear us talk through these learnings—along with a few stories, laughs and reflections from our nine‑year journey—head over to our YouTube channel to watch the full episode.

🎥 Watch the GEC PR Podcast: “9 PR Learnings for 9 Years” Available on our YouTube channel.

And if you’d like help applying any of these insights to your own business, we’d love to chat. You can reach us at info@gecpr.co.uk.

Here’s to nine years of GEC PR—and to everything still to come.

ENDS