"Hunter took the guesswork out of marketing and showed me a smarter, more efficient way to advance my product. She offers a turn-key marketing service that includes creative and insightful copy and press releases, flawless event planning, web design...the list goes on. Her professionalism and results-oriented work made her a valuable member of my team. I look forward to working with her again."
"You would have to go far to find anyone more detail-oriented or more knowledgeable than Hunter. We have worked together numerous times, and I always found her to be exceptional in handling any situation to bring it to its best solution and performed as requested. Nothing is too hard for HVPR to do to your satisfaction! If you want the best...it goes without saying, HVPR!"
"Hunter is very professional and knows her stuff! She runs a solid Public Relations firm in Northeast Florida. It seems like every other business that we work with has heard of her. She has a great reputation and is always business. To know her on a personal level is rewarding as well. She knows how to make people laugh and is very laid back. She keeps you on your toes and knows how to market any business. If you want to get your brand out, call Hunter Valmont!"
"When attention to detail, total understanding of the desired outcomes and great results are important, Hunter delivers beyond expectations. Her assignments for the real estate sections of The Florida Times-Union always have been on target, creatively presented and ahead of deadline, making her a favorite freelancer. Her drive and commitment to her clients is reflected in her company's high standards and success. Hunter is a go-to professional in every sense of the word."
"I had the pleasure of working with Hunter as joint volunteers for the yearly Realtor-Builder Trade Show while I was the Co-Chair of the Committee. Hunter's involvement as a PR consultant was a vital part of one of the biggest fundraising events for the joint associations of NEFAR and the SMC of NEFBA. She helped define our marketing plans, developed some innovative and clever strategies for broadcasting the event in different media venues, and her upbeat and "can-do" attitude were an example to our entire committee. Hunter's knowledge of her business and of the needs of our real estate community make her a valuable ally and consultant."
"Mercedes Homes takes pride in working with only the most talented professionals. Hunter's integrity, industry experience and ability to take a project from beginning to end with ease makes her a valuable asset to our company. Through our work with HVPR, we consistently yield a positive public response to our products."
Tips For Hiring An Agency
1.) Invest Your Time. Finding the right agency fit means taking the time to do your homework. Expensive office spaces and client name-dropping have little to do with work ethic, project success, client goal achievement or industry experience. Choose an agency that adds value to YOUR business or project. Will the agency meet your needs, provide a significant ROI and stay within your budget?
2.) Don't Lose Your Mind Over a Mind-Blowing Pitch. We've all heard the saying, "It's all in the presentation." Well, sometimes, it absolutely is. Larger agencies tend to be phenomenal closers. Once you've signed a contract, however, will your account be passed to a junior staffer? When hiring an agency, consider the following: Will I have direct access to agency executives? Does the agency respond to me and/or my staff in a timely manner? Will the agency match the effort put forth during its pitch when dealing with day-to-day tasks and project deadlines?
3.) It's Not A Trick Question. "What is your budget?" This is a legitimate question, not an attempt to pick your pocket. It allows agencies to quickly assess whether or not you are in the right place. Most clients who have never purchased professional services have no concept of industry standards, actual time involved and pricing. Is your budget realistic for the services you need? Ask the agency representative for a preliminary cost estimate, understanding that this (confidential) information typically will not be given over the phone.
4.) PR, Marketing and Advertising Are Not Synonymous. Is the company a PR agency that offers supplemental advertising, marketing and web services? Is it an advertising agency that offers PR, special event and social media services? While many agencies offer clients a full-service approach, most agency portfolios are built on one or two major areas of expertise. Inquire about these areas and determine if they match your most vital account needs.
5.) Media Coverage Is Never Guaranteed. "I'm friends with the editor." That statement is about as relevant to receiving media coverage as is "I know the newspaper delivery boy." No matter how great the media relationship, an agency cannot guarantee media coverage or other specific publicity outcomes. Even the slightest hint of a guarantee is a huge red flag. Typically, editors create an annual media schedule, in which press opportunities are scheduled weeks, even months in advance. A realistic expectation is that your agency strongly negotiate your inclusion into each media contact's schedule, understanding that coverage may not always be possible.