03/23/2012 // Market Harborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom // emilie.legrand // Punch Communications

The eagerly awaited announcement of the 2012 Budget on Wednesday (21st March) was watched with baited breath by Britons across the country, but as a hook for placing commentary for clients, is it still a weapon PR agencies should retain in their armoury? Integrated PR, search and social media agency, Punch Communications argues it is.

“In any of the agencies in which I have ever worked in, watching the Budget announcement as it unfolds is an exciting occurrence, throwing up opportunities for immediate comments or in-depth features later down the line. Intermingled with the ‘in’ jokes about the colour of the Chancellor’s tie and jeering from the backbenches, now more than ever before, brands and media can immediately respond to developments through the mediums of social media, video and real-time news feeds,” explains Georgina Dunkley, account director at PR agency, Punch Communications.

“The key to success when responding to Budget announcements is preparation. Leading up to the big day there is always an influx of reports, leads and media requests outlining what the proposed Budget looks like. Although I would never recommend drafting a statement in advance, it is definitely worth contacting your key media targets to see if they are looking for spokespeople surrounding your areas of expertise.”

In addition to looking at tax, benefits and duty increases, this year’s Budget also provided opportunities for businesses operating in the gaming, technology, transportation and business enterprise industries to comment on the reforms.

“This Budget week, with the coalition government under more public scrutiny than ever before, the news and views on the plans have been in abundance and a real mix of businesses both big and small have voiced their opinions in newspapers, on blogs and across social media channels. As a nation I feel we are all now better informed and businesses are much savvier at utilising this, one of the biggest Political dates, in the annual calendar.”

Punch Communications offers a range of PR, search and social media services for both national and global clients. Punch is currently recruiting for a number of staff looking for jobs in PR. For more information, visit www.punchcomms.com.

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