I recently got outside and helped out with the bee hives at the farm. We have to check them regularly, in order to make sure the hive is healthy, creating a good stock of honey and we are able to locate a queen who produces new larvae. This was the first time I’ve been around a live, open bee box and while the process was exciting and a bit scary, I also found a bunch of similarities with public relations. Here are four PR lessons from standing in a large swarm of bees.
How is public relations like a swarm of bees?
4 PR Lessons from Standing in a Swarm of Bees
1. Elect a Strong Leader
When choosing a new queen, the hive is very picky when making the decision. In bee keeping, you can try to create a new queen bee by keeping them isolated inside a container that is plugged with something sweet, usually a marshmallow. The hive then decides if they like the chosen queen and elects to release her by chewing through the marshmallow. They must make the right decision because the queen is the brain of the beehive. If the rest of the insects don’t approve of her leadership, they may choose to leave for greener pastures. Your social media manager has a lot of responsibility on their shoulders, so be sure to choose a strong leader and make sure they are fully-versed in your company before they click “Publish.”
2. Make Calculated Decisions
Even though there were more than 60,000 bees swarming around the hive, acting appropriately around them was a good way to ensure you don’t get stung. We used smoke as a tool to get the bees to dive back into the hive and seek their honey; a natural defense mechanism when they are under stress. This was an advantage to us because they became more docile. Still, we had to move slowly and avoid sudden movements. By making planned and calculated decisions during your public relations campaign, you too can achieve success. Creating a media game plan is a good place to start.
3. Create Lots of Buzz
The sound of the bees was in the air all around us; the swarm created a thick buzzing sound which kept echoing in my ears long after I left. Each insect uses this sound to try and keep predators from harming the hive. You should create social media buzz by creating content that’s shareable and resonates with your audience. Adding images, videos or holding a poll on your profiles can all increase fan engagement and get people talking about your brand.
4. Reap Your Rewards
When the hive is checked regularly for health, you should be able to see rewards in the form of delicious, fresh honey. After a successful public relations campaign, be sure to measure the results and reap the benefits of your hard work! Don’t lose your followers; keep them engaged and interested in your message.
Public relations campaigns have a lot in common with a hive of bees; they elect a strong leader, create lots of buzz for themselves, make strategic decisions and reap the rewards. What PR lessons can a hive of swarming bees teach you?
Photo Credit: Beth Adan
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