What is communications and PR and why does it matter for your business?

Like most communications and PR professionals, I’ve been asked this many times. And I’m sure the same goes for most professions.

Comms and PR is not often top of the list when it comes to people thinking about what goes into running a business. There’s the product and service, funding, and operations. But how do you get your product or service into the end user’s hands, or should I say minds. How a business tells their story is as important as what they’re building.

At Jimrock, we help founders and leadership teams use strategic communications and PR to build credibility, raise visibility, and accelerate growth. So let’s break it down.

What is communications?

Ok, so some communications is about the hardware needed to communicate (phones etc). This is not that communications. At its core, the communications I’m talking about is the way your business connects with your audiences - customers, investors, partners, employees, the media, and the wider public. That connection could be through a website, social media, a speech at a conference, or the way you respond to a crisis.

Communications includes:

• Messaging: What are you saying, and is it clear and consistent?

• Channels: Where are you saying it—on LinkedIn, in the press, face-to-face?

• Audiences: Who needs to hear it, and why should they care?

• Engagement: Are people listening, responding, and trusting you?

Strong communications aren’t just nice to have. They help you:

• Attract the right people (investors, team members, customers)

• Manage your reputation

• Gain trust in competitive or sensitive markets

• Align your internal team around a shared mission

What is PR (Public Relations)?

Public Relations is about shaping how your organisation is perceived by the outside world, especially through the media. PR professionals build relationships with journalists, secure media coverage, and help your story reach the right people in the right places.

PR includes:

• Media coverage in relevant newspapers, websites, podcasts, and magazines

• Thought leadership pieces and expert commentary

• Speaking opportunities at events and panels

• Crisis management when something goes wrong

• Proactive storytelling to raise your visibility and influence

The goal? To build trust and authority in the marketplace—without paying for advertising.

Why Communications and PR matter (especially for founders)

In the early stages of a business, you are the brand. Your story, your mission, your vision - they’re what makes your company credible and compelling. Communications and PR amplify that story in a way that builds long-term business value. And these stories continue to matter as your business grows.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• You land media coverage in a respected industry outlet → You attract investor interest

• You’re invited to speak at a conference → You meet your next strategic partner

• You publish a well-crafted op-ed → You position yourself as a thought leader

• You communicate clearly during change or crisis → You retain trust and support

At Jimrock, we help founders build personal and business credibility from the ground up - through communications strategies that are clear, consistent, and human. Whether you're launching a new product, entering a new market, or preparing to raise a round, we make sure your message is doing the heavy lifting.

Ready to tell your story better?

If you're looking to raise your profile and grow your business, we’d love to help. Our new visibility programme is launching at a reduced rate and is designed specifically for leaders who are ready to invest in visibility, credibility, and growth.