How we work with you
The benefits of sound communication strategy and consistent implementation are best achieved through a long-term commitment by client and consultant.
Because public relations involves in-depth discussion of a client's business at a strategic level, the Public Relations Institute Code of Ethics precludes concurrent work for clients where there is a conflict of interest (actual or perceived).
We give you a choice of contractual options to clarify and protect your interests and to encourage an on-going relationship.
For public relations
Fixed retainer: We liaise with you, develop strategies and options, and implement them. We manage communications on an on-going basis, coping with the inevitable fluctuations in workload. You are billed an agreed amount each month regardless of the level of activity. Any outside disbursements are invoiced in addition to the retainer. Once common, such arrangements are now rarely used.
Base and capped retainer: This type of arrangement has two components - a base fee which covers on-going elements such as client liaison, media monitoring and keeping up-to-date with sector developments; and a retainer cap. The latter requires you prior approval to exceed in any one month. The cap is set by you, normally well within your expected level of activity, to provide flexibility in budget management. Disbursements are invoiced in addition.
Retainer plus hourly rate: This secures our services against the possibility we may be engaged by one of your competitors, while restraining costs where there is a limited requirement.
For market research
This is typically a situation where there is a single large project for which specifications have been defined or can be developed. This suits a project fee arrangement.
We follow the usual industry practice of invoicing 50% of the project fee on commissioning, with the balance on final delivery. For more complex or extended projects, invoicing may be split between commissioning, fieldwork and reporting.
Our practice is to formalise arrangements through a Terms of Engagement letter for your signature prior to work commencing.
