Everyone knows how important it is to shout about your business and what you’re up to behind the scenes, but many are often unsure of the best way to do this. After all, there are so many options out there to choose from.
Two popular ways of shouting about your business are by writing a case study or a blog.
When we recommend these to clients, we’re sometimes asked the difference between the two; fortunately for you, that’s precisely what this blog is all about…
Case studies
A case study is an in-depth, detailed analysis, typically referring to a specific client, event, challenge, or problem that has been solved.
The most common format of a case study is…
- Identification of a specific problem or challenge.
- Introducing the reasons for selecting the solution or plan of action.
- Explaining the roadmap to achieving the solution.
- Showing the impact of the solution or action.
For example, the J&PR team uses case studies to showcase the impact the team's work has made, starting with what we did, why we did it, and what we achieved for the client.
This can vary from growing a client's online presence to relaunching a refurbished venue, or spreading awareness of the incredible work done by a voluntary group.
Stuck for ideas? Feel free to take some inspiration from the ‘Our Impact’ page on our website!
Blogs
Whilst you may have recognised some similarities between blogs and case studies, writing a blog is very different to writing a case study - here’s why…
Unlike a case study, blogs are usually written in an informative, conversational style, providing insight into a specific topic - whether that’s sharing opinions on that topic, or showcasing expertise in a particular area (such as social media).
Blogs can also be a good way to share what’s going on in your industry that you think people might be interested in, with behind-the-scenes snippets and regular updates of what your team has been up to. Perhaps you could follow our lead and introduce a monthly highlights blog?
If you’re stuck for ideas, here are some of the favourite J&PR behind-the-scenes blog examples…
- Attendance of a conference.
- Your team member's New Year's resolutions.
- What you’re reading in your Business Book Club.
- A member of your team has organised or is about to take part in a fundraising event.
- Academic achievements that benefit customers
- Sharing how your team has acknowledged an awareness day, such as techtimeout Tuesday or National Apprenticeship Week.
If in doubt, you can always use an old journalism tool ‘The Pub Test’ - if something is worth telling your friend in the pub about, it’s probably worth writing a piece of content about it, too. If you would never mention it…don’t waste time writing about it!
What now?
Now you know the difference between a blog and a case study, it’s time to get cracking!
Not got the time or the know-how? Don’t worry, we can help.We offer retained content packages or, if you’d prefer to do it yourself, we host training sessions so you can learn the tricks of the trade. Email us at info@jandpr.com or phone 01952 951 263 for more information.
