Purring for PR: Why Are Cats So Good At Public Relations?

As my cat walks across the keyboard during yet another zoom meeting, earning the collective “oooh”s and “awww”s of her audience, I got to thinking that she may be on to something: she really does have a unique way of grabbing people’s attention, getting them to like her, and becoming the topic of conversation. Is this what she intended all along? What was her strategy? And what’s the secret to her success? Here are my thoughts on why cats are so good at PR.

1. Strategic Purr-suasion: Cats are known for their strategic approach to achieving their goals, carefully planning their attack, for example, before finally leaping on their prey. In PR, a similar mindset is essential for crafting persuasive messaging and communication strategies that resonate with target audiences. Analyzing market trends, audience demographics, and competitor activity to identify opportunities and develop tailored campaigns that capture attention and drive engagement must be part of any PR strategy.
2. Curating a Purr-fect Image: Cats are masters of self-presentation, meticulously maintaining their sleek and sophisticated appearance. Similarly, in PR we must work tirelessly to curate and manage the public image of our clients. From crafting compelling brand stories to shaping narratives that highlight key messages and values, we play a crucial role in maintaining a positive and consistent brand image.
3. Playing it Cool Under Purr-essure: Cats exude an air of confidence and poise, even in the face of adversity. In PR, the ability to remain calm and composed under pressure is essential for effectively managing crises and mitigating reputational risks. Like a cat effortlessly navigating a precarious ledge, we must think quickly on our feet, anticipate potential challenges, and respond with clarity and integrity to protect our client’s interests.
4. Making it Purr-sonal: Despite their reputation for independence, cats often form strong bonds with their humans. In PR, we need to build and nurture our relationships with journalists, influencers, stakeholders, and the wider community. By establishing genuine connections, providing valuable insights, and offering timely support and assistance, we can cultivate trust and goodwill that pays dividends in the form of positive media coverage, brand advocacy, and customer loyalty.
5. Purr-severing: Cats are agile and adaptable creatures, persevering by adjusting their tactics and behavior to achieve their objectives. In the fast-paced world of PR, these qualities are equally important for responding to emerging trends and evolving issues. We must remain ready to pivot strategies, seize opportunities, navigate challenges and persevere to reach our goals.
6. Purr-veying Mystery: Cats have a mysterious allure that captivates and intrigues. When we harness the power of mystery and intrigue we, too, can capture the attention of target audiences and generate buzz around brands and campaigns. By teasing out tantalizing hints, offering exclusive sneak peeks, and creating a sense of anticipation, we can create the kind of excitement and anticipation that drives engagement and builds brand momentum.

While cats may approach public relations with a distinctly feline flair, they can shed some valuable insights into our own PR strategies. Next time you’re looking for a new angle to help effectively navigate the complexities of the media landscape, shift customer perceptions and preferences, or elevate brands to new heights of success, take a cue from our feline friends. They have much to teach us about the power of purr-suasion.