27th Nov 2024
Meet The Member – Anna McDonald, Anna McDonald PR
Name – Anna McDonald
Business Name – Anna McDonald PR
Tell us about your business, the inspiration behind it and when you launched it?
I offer integrated public relations (PR) and communications services to small and medium-sized businesses. With nearly a decade of experience in the industry, I have worked up the ranks by delivering successful campaigns for companies both big and small – from major retailers like M&S to independent restaurants. But, my real passion lies in helping smaller and mid-sized businesses earn their attention alongside larger companies who have mega-marketing budgets. So, I left my “big agency” role to set out on my own in a bid to offer more affordable services to those smaller businesses, while providing advice that I genuinely believe is worth every penny. I launched in September of 2024.
Best piece of advice you were given at the start of your business journey?
It’s early for me still, but one of my career mentors told me fear of failure is normal – and when you’re running your own business, you have to learn to live with it. I’m doing my best!
What has been your biggest lesson/ challenge faced so far and how did you overcome it?
Putting myself out there doesn’t always come naturally to me – but joining groups like this is an obvious step towards overcoming it.
What is your number 1 business tip for success?
Know who you’re targeting, and find out exactly how to not only reach them, but get them engaged.
What are the big business goals for the year?
Build my client roster!
How can the GGC Business membership help?
I’d love to meet other business owners to hear how they’ve approached building their businesses, and of course, anyone in need of affordable and impactful PR services need only drop me an email or give me a ring. I do not offer in depth social media services (beyond personal/exec brand) or photography, so I’m also keen to grow my network of small businesses that do, in case we can ever team up or refer clients.
What’s the dream?
In the near term, consistently keeping busy with clients. In the long run, I’m hooked on self employment. I think I’ll start to ask the question of whether to remain a sole trader, or set up a small, boutique consultancy. Watch this space
Fave mantra to get you buzzed up for business!
What, like it’s hard?
Shout out to another local business you admire?
Maia Gifts! Fifteen years on the high street as an independent business – having worked in a small shop during my days at uni, it takes such a huge effort and I have the utmost respect for independent retail.
Give us 3 fun facts about you!
- I’m Canadian (living in Scotland for over six years now)
- I love to play tennis (badly)
- I participate in a Premier League Fantasy Football league. There are eight of us, seven men, and I’m definitely not last!
Find out more and get in touch with Anna here!
