BizComPR

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO of two companies: Restoration 1 and bluefrog Pumping + Drain, which are service industry franchises.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with BizComPR?

We wanted to get the word out about our franchise via social media and different publications centered around our industry.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We sat down with their team and discussed our goals for 2017. They formulated a plan with expectations, timelines, and an overall program.

Right away, they started creating press releases for the company and staff, including our acquisition of bluefrog plumbing. They also create and develop blog posts for our company and for me. I’ve worked in the franchise industry for 30 years, so one central piece of the plan is to spread the word about my background to raise awareness and recognition for the company. BizComPR manages my social media accounts, too.

What is the team dynamic?

I work closely with Monica [President, BizComPR], and my teams works with Morgan [Account Executive, BizComPR] and Hannah [Account Manager, BizComPR].

How did you come to work with BizComPR?

My franchise attorney recommended them. I wanted a company with experience in franchise marketing, and after meeting with them, I decided they were perfect for the job.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $80,000–$100,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together for a little over a year, and the work is still ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

They’ve gotten me more interviews in 12 months than I’ve had in the last few years with my past provider. The amount of social media followers has also increased since we hired them.

How did BizComPR perform from a project management standpoint?

BizComPR performs at a high level, including in project management. They send me a monthly reporting telling us how we performed in the previous month, which I find helpful.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They always deliver. Everything they promise to do, they do. They work hard, and the entire team is results driven.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t have any complaints.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be clear about your goals, and BizComPR will accomplish them.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the co-chair of the Dwyer Group, which is a values-guided world leader of franchise businesses focused on maintaining, enhancing, or repairing homes and businesses. We have about 2,800 franchisees in 11 countries doing about $1.5 billion in systemwide sales.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with BizComPR?

We were a publicly traded company when we first hired BizCom, so it was a big challenge getting recognition in the public marketplace. In addition to that, in franchising, it's always about getting your name out there for those who might be considering a business opportunity in the franchising world. We were looking primarily for good, strong public relations for our brand.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Over the years they've gotten us into trade publications, major newspapers and TV news broadcasts, large magazines focused on franchising in the home, and more. One of their greatest impacts was getting us featured on Undercover Boss 5 or 6 years ago. We could never have afforded that on our own, and it continues to pay dividends because the wide exposure gave us new opportunities to keep building our brand.

What is the team dynamic?

I've worked primarily with co-founder Monica Feid, who is now president of BizCom, and then I also work with Cortney Haygood and Melissa Rubin as well, who are part of Monica's team.

How did you come to work with BizCom?

Our founder had worked with a gentleman at BizCom and had a tremendous experience with him, so it was an easy decision to continue working with such a top-notch organization.

What is the status of this engagement?

We've been working together for over 20 years.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Managing or measuring PR is challenging, but to return to the Undercover Boss episode as an example: we gained many new franchisees and speaking opportunities as a result of that exposure. BizCom has positively transmitted our message in many ways over the years, and while it's tough to put a number on it, we've definitely received more than we've paid in terms of fees.

How did BizCom perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate primarily by email or over the phone. I've never had an experience where they've dropped the ball on a project.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their integrity is fantastic. I never have to worry that they're going to put our company at risk. Additionally, they're masters at really getting to know the client so they can take as much work off our hands as possible. With a press release, for example, they know us so well they can write one that needs very few changes. They're also very responsive. BizCom's team is always available to work with us.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I had an opportunity to develop a personal website with them, and while it wasn't a bad experience, it's not what they're experts at. There was a lot more learning involved for all of us than what's typical for their other services.