Looking back, 2016 was a very eventful year for many different reasons. We witnessed PR moments from the likes of Jeremy Corbyn and Virgin Trains, Brangelina’s clever PR tactics, the exploding Samsung Galaxy saga, and of course, Brexit & Trump’s victory.

So, what will be in store for PR in 2017? Read on for our predictions…

1: Bloggers, vloggers & peer-to-peer reviews will become more influential

Forget multi-million-pound celebrity endorsements, consumers now favour and are more likely to be influenced by someone who is more relatable. Therefore, in 2017 there needs to be a focus on promoting reviews from bloggers, vloggers and your everyday consumer, as big ad campaigns and celebrity endorsements no longer resonate as much with consumers.

2: Tech PR growth will outstrip the rest of the industry

A report from last month’s PRCA PR & Comms Council meeting detailed a downturn in fees and activities in the corporate, financial, consumer and industrial PR sectors. But, that the healthcare and tech PR sectors are bucking this trend with some agencies reporting 30% growth in 2016 and forecasting up to 50% growth in 2017. This trend is evident by the record number of exhibitors and visitors to the CES show. In the healthcare sector, technological innovation is driving growth alongside US and UK Government initiatives to improve public sector cyber security.

3: PR professionals will need a broader range of skills

Good writing and communication skills are still fundamental attributes to anyone wishing to pursue a career in PR. However, the proliferation of social media demands that PR professionals need to adopt a range of content, publishing, design, and analytical skills and become familiar with a variety of digital tools. In addition, with clients expecting a more strategic service in 2017, it’s vital for PR professionals to have good business acumen.

4: PR will become more measurable & more integrated

The increasingly wide range of digital media platforms available to PR professionals will provide greater insight into the effectiveness of their activities. This is making PR just as measurable and accountable as sales and advertising activities.

By measuring each disciplines results, enlightened clients can see what works, what doesn’t and where a blend of integrated activities more often than not will lead to best results.

What do you think will be the trends to watch out for in 2017?