Being part of an international network of public relations and communications specialists is a great bonus for an independent PR agency. Getting business referrals is obviously a key desire. But if the network is active, as the IPREX network to which Walsh Public Relations belongs is, then the benefits extend much further.

One of the principal objectives of IPREX is to provide opportunities for its international partners to meet. To sit across the table and look each other in the eyes, to listen and swap experiences, to learn from best practice in other markets. There are at least four meetings per year for owners/directors and one meeting annually for executives making a career in the PR business. Then there are regular teleconferences and opportunities to work together on a variety of committees.

In addition there were sessions in Belfast on new business development and management issues. A business speed dating opportunity gave us a great chance to discuss issues of mutual interest and benefit.

Such a strong level of activity and co-operation between partners in any network may seem logical. But that is not always the case. In Belfast our Madrid partner presented a detailed study of 42 regional and international PR networks. The lack of opportunities for business development and working together in many of the networks was startling. For too many it seemed to be a case of maybe meeting once a year and being listed on a web site. This type of networking approach, just putting dots on the map, offers no real service to the PR companies or their clients

There are now 68 partner companies in IPREX with 88 offices and 1300 executives operating worldwide, mainly in Europe, North & South America and Asia Pacific.

Since joining the network in 1998 Walsh Public Relations has benefitted hugely from the experience. We have worked in collaboration with our partners in France, Portugal, the UK and the US on helping their clients in the Irish market. And we have offered our partners in Asia, the US, Middle East and Europe opportunities to support Irish organisations in their market.

All of this work is done in a spirit of co-operation and the management and marketing benefits are immense. If it brings a financial benefit that’s the bonus.