​ELEPHANT LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAMME OF FREE ADVICE DAYS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

On Friday 27 October, the team at elephant communications will once again be opening its doors to local small business start-ups, offering free tips and guidance to help them make the most of earned and editorial media coverage.

Since launch in 2012, an authentic community investment programme has been at the heart of elephant’s mission – a desire to give something back and to make a meaningful contribution to society. The award-winning free advice days for small businesses have always been an element of this programme. The new programme that will run from October 2017 to June 2018 marks six years of elephant giving pro bono support to the small business community.

The new programme will have a new focus. Rather than general tips on messaging, print media and developing a communications plan – the forthcoming sessions will focus on broadcast and digital media. The elephant team will help small businesses attending the sessions to make the most of social media, online and website marketing and also radio and podcasts. With the rise in the number of local and community radio stations that have launched in the last decade, this represents a natural channel for small businesses to get their message across and to learn interview techniques.

Guy Bellamy, Founder at elephant comments: “The changing media landscape is both a challenge and an opportunity for small businesses trying to establish their brands. Our forthcoming advice days aim to arm small business owners with skills to make the most of communications as they grow their ventures - and to make the most of marketing tactics that don’t cost anything. Over the years we have helped more than 200 small businesses as part of our community programme. Our day-to-day clients comprise of major UK and international brands spanning a number of sectors. Whilst we don’t work for SMEs day-to-day, we are keen to provide some pro bono days to share tips and best practice with start-ups. Our research suggests many small businesses don’t make the most of non-paid for media promotion and many have great stories to tell.”

For more information on the next free advice day on 27 October, or to book a place, contact info@elephantcommunications.co.uk