We are here to help – call us for ‘no fee’ advice

Renewed interest in renewables from new Government

Labour came to power with a manifesto that said they will work with the private sector. We look at the plans to double onshore wind, triple solar power, and quadruple offshore wind by 2030 and consider what it might mean in terms of communications and community engagement.

October, 2024 more

The importance of networking

Networking is a word that can make people shudder in horror. Either in fear at confronting a room of strangers who aren’t potential customers, or in dismay at time wasted away from potential customers.

July, 2024 more

Minimal marketing is better than nothing

When it comes to saving money, marketing can often be top of the list for things to do without. But if you don’t tell people you exist, how can you generate new customers?

May, 2024 more

The plain and simple answer to good communication

Choose your language to suit your audience and don't over-complicate.

April, 2024 more

The importance of handling crisis comms correctly

Every organisation, regardless of size or industry, is susceptible to crises that can potentially tarnish their reputation and even threaten their very existence.

March, 2024 more

How good is your attention to detail?

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, is here to tell you about the importance of attention to detail.

March, 2024 more

Greenwash claims face red flag from the European Union

The European Commission is looking to bring in new legislation to clamp down on greenwashing by companies. This has major implications for businesses and their communication advisers who are promoting their Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) credentials, and who operate in the European Union.

March, 2024 more

There’s no such thing as a free lunch, or is there?

In which we consider why it can be a good thing to host a networking event.

February, 2024 more

Time to refresh your personal brand?

The beginning of the year is a good time to take a look at your branding and marketing, not just for your organisation but also for your personal brand. If you think you don’t have one, think again.

January, 2024 more

Constructing a case for development

The construction industry is vitally important to the economy in the South East. There are some fantastic companies, but too often before a spade can be put in the ground there’s the need to navigate the court of public opinion, and that requires good communication from the start.

October, 2023 more

Helping companies gain planning permission across Kent and the South East

Maxim has helped numerous public and private sector organisations to achieve planning permission for a wide range of schemes, including commercial and residential developments, major infrastructure and renewables projects.

October, 2023 more

Awards shortlistings can do wonders for your brand

All awards involvement is good, so make sure you celebrate taking part.

September, 2023 more

PR goes beyond the press

Effective public relations is much more than simply media relations – the value of a press release goes beyond just sending it to the media. It’s about utilising the reach of all available channels to communicate with your target audience(s) and key stakeholders.

August, 2023 more

Understanding the political landscape

A key part of our work involves advising clients on the political landscape, and how best to engage with local stakeholders. MD Andrew Metcalf gives an insight into what recent political changes might mean for local businesses as we edge closer to the General Election.

August, 2023 more

Are you good company?

Andrew Metcalf, Managing Director of Kent PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, considers what it takes to demonstrate you’re a good company.

August, 2023 more

When is it okay to let others use your brand?

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, explains why it can be good to let your brand out into the wild.

July, 2023 more

Is my news really newsworthy?

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, considers when something is – and isn't – news.

June, 2023 more

Repeat after me: repetition is a good thing

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim explains why it's important to repeat yourself.

June, 2023 more

Sponsorship as a way to market your brand

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim looks at an alternative way of promoting your business.

June, 2023 more

Boost your marketing with some alternative advertising

When it comes to getting your name out there, the obvious thing to do is advertise but sometimes you need to complement the magazine, TV or billboard. Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, suggests a different approach.

February, 2023 more

Take some positive action for your publicity

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, offers some advice for raising your profile on a budget.

January, 2023 more

What are FAQs and why do I need them?

Frequently asked questions can be a valuable business tool, writes Maxim Account Director Erica Jones, if you take the time to prepare and share them.

November, 2022 more

When is a good time to join a social media trend?

It can be tempting to jump on a Twitter trend as soon as you spot it. Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim explains why sometimes it’s better to wait.

September, 2022 more

Professional photography is a cost-effective investment

We all know a picture speaks a thousand words. Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, wants to know how many of you acknowledge this fact when marketing your business?

August, 2022 more

Don’t over-complicate your message

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent-based PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, explains the importance of press releases and how to use them.

July, 2022 more

Your marketing is great, but how are your internal communications?

Are your communications overlooking an important audience? Erica Jones, Account Director at PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim, explains.

May, 2022 more

‘Local not London’, is that too much to ask?

Supporting ‘Local’ is much more than where you buy your skinny mocha latte, curly kale and carrots, it needs to extend to every purchasing decision made by business. 

March, 2022 more

Stakeholders are key to success

Talking to the appropriate people at the right time, using appropriate messaging is the basis for every successful project, whether that’s marketing a product or service, submitting a planning application or promoting a brand.

February, 2022 more

How do I hold my event during Covid?

Erica Jones, Account Director at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, considers the options for planning awards, conferences, dinners, exhibitions, and more in the face of Covid-19 uncertainty.

January, 2022 more

Mix up your marketing

Do you remember where you were on the evening of Monday, 4 October? Rachel Knight, director at Kent PR, marketing and public affairs agency Maxim recalls the night social media was a little quieter than usual and explains why it's important not to rely on one form of marketing.

November, 2021 more

An awards writing checklist

Entering – and preferably winning – awards can be a great promotional tool for yourself and/or your organisation, but what is the secret to success? How do you get yourself on the shortlist? And what can you do to ensure victory is yours? Erica Jones of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim offers some advice.

April, 2021 more

Trust – the bedrock for business

Trust is at the heart of every decision we take, whether it’s the technology we buy, the car we drive, the business we buy from or recommendations to others – or the politicians we vote for. Andrew Metcalf, Director of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, considers what it means for business.

February, 2021 more

Can bricks ever again compete with clicks after Covid?

With online sales rocketing and footfall in physical shops significantly down, Andrew Metcalf, Director of PR and marketing agency Maxim, considers the options for our communities and struggling high streets.

February, 2021 more

Protecting the integrity of your brand in times of crisis

Maintaining the integrity of your brand should be a key consideration for any organisation and it is often during a crisis that the matter requires the greatest attention, writes Philip Jones, Director at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.

October, 2020 more

Businesses urged to keep the marketing tap running

Maxim’s Andrew Metcalf takes us into his bathroom to explain how businesses can get their marketing activity right.

September, 2020 more

Things to consider before signing up to influencer marketing

If you’re considering recruiting social media influencers to help promote your products or add their name to your cause, it is not without risk and, argues Maxim’s Andrew Metcalf, it’s a case of caveat emptor – buyer beware.

September, 2020 more

Preparing for business re-opening and the post-covid world

While some of us will still be in shock over the impact of covid-19 on our businesses, many will have moved on to anger, and others might have accepted it. Andrew Metcalf, director of Maxim advises people to consider what they might do next.

April, 2020 more

Top tips for becoming a valued media spokesperson

The media is constantly on the lookout for credible spokespeople to respond to enquiries, often resulting in interviews in print, on radio, and on television. Andrew Metcalf, Director at PR and marketing agency Maxim, offers some advice on becoming – and proving yourself – a valued spokesperson for the media.

March, 2020 more

Protecting your reputation during the Covid-19 outbreak

Every business should be considering the possible impact of Coronavirus on how they operate during the ongoing uncertainty.

March, 2020 more

Getting your message across

Sometimes words need to be serious, other times they need to be friendly and relaxed. Erica Jones, account manager at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, considers the importance of language when sharing your story.

February, 2020 more

What is a video press release?

A video press release, or a video news release, is filmed as a news report to then be issued to the media. Much like the written version, a video press release should be produced in a style that will make it easy for the media to use.

August, 2019 more

Are you looking after your brand?

It’s a small thing, but your company logo plays a massive part in identifying your business. Erica Jones reminds us why it’s important to look after your logo.

May, 2018 more

Using public relations to make sure succession planning is a success

Succession planning is a challenge often overlooked until it's too late. Andrew Metcalf believes that public relations has an important role to play in helping the transition to go as smoothly as possible.

May, 2018 more

Three tips to get the most out of your PR agency

There’s no point employing a PR agency if you’re not going to make the most of them. Erica Jones highlights three things to help you on your way to premium publicity.

September, 2017 more

Timing is (almost) everything in media relations

In PR – as in life – timing is not quite everything but it can play an important role in how much coverage a story receives.

May, 2017 more

President Trump’s PR spokesperson - the toughest PR job just got tougher

Press secretary to President Trump, Sean Spicer has just made his life so much harder by not following the fundamental rules of PR. Andrew Metcalf, director of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, examines what’s behind the epic media fail and how things might be turned around.

January, 2017 more

Ten questions to drive your marketing

Before diving headlong into marketing your company, and blowing your budget by adopting a bull in a china shop approach, step back and ask yourself some fundamental questions about your business.

January, 2017 more

Freebies: Good marketing tool or a waste of money?

There’s something about the word free that draws people in, but do we actually need, want or use those items we’ve hastily grabbed? Erica Jones from Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim looks at the benefits or otherwise of the free gift.

November, 2016 more

Public relations and positivity

Public relations focusses on the positive side of your work, explains Erica Jones of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.

November, 2016 more

Protecting your reputation in a crisis

Any organisation, no matter how well run, can face a potential public relations crisis. How the situation is handled can make a significant difference to its impact.

September, 2016 more

Tips for taking photos for the press

A good picture can tell – or even sell – a story so as a PR agency Maxim always advises clients to use a professional photographer whenever possible. But what if you don't have the time or the budget?

September, 2016 more

The reward of entering awards

It’s great to win awards and be told you’re the best of the best, but – when it comes to profile-building – awards really can be about taking part. Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim explains.

August, 2016 more

Politician defends a journalist – shock horror

Does it matter if someone is offended by a reporter’s line of questioning? Andy Rayfield, account director at Kent PR and public affairs agency Maxim, says he believes journalists have every right to ask probing questions

June, 2016 more

How to prepare to face the television cameras

Being interviewed by the media can be a daunting experience, being interviewed on film can make it even more nerve-racking. Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim offers some advice to help you get it right.

May, 2016 more

Public relations versus marketing

What is the difference between public relations and marketing? Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim explains

April, 2016 more

The secret to organising a group photograph

Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim offers some advice on gathering up important people for that must-have group photograph.

March, 2016 more

"Can we make it go viral?"

Creating an image, article or even a concept that is shared across the internet is every marketeers’ dream but it is virtually impossible to come up with an idea that is guaranteed to go viral. Often it will happen purely by accident.

January, 2016 more

Preparing for public exhibitions

Public exhibitions are relatively easy events to organise: you book a hall, print out an information board or two and wait for visitors. However getting them right involves a little more work. Erica Jones of Kent PR and Marketing agency Maxim offers four tips to help make your event run more smoothly.

September, 2015 more

FIFA scandal undermines brand of beautiful game

News of arrests at FIFA’s headquarters in Geneva by FBI agents sent the media into a frenzy of activity, calling into question the reputation of the beautiful game. Football fan Andy Rayfield considers some interesting questions.

May, 2015 more

Securing editorial coverage – the role of the case study

Case studies can be the perfect way to demonstrate the value of your product or service, explains Andrew Metcalf, Director of Kent PR agency Maxim

April, 2015 more

How to be a social media success

Erica Jones, Senior Account Executive at Kent PR agency Maxim, offers some tips on social interaction online.

February, 2015 more

Top tips on avoiding typos

Spelling mistakes can ruin your message. Philip Jones, Director of Kent PR agency Maxim, offers some advice on keeping your copy clean.

January, 2015 more

Don’t be caught short by a lack of social media awareness

One small gesture on Twitter can create a wealth of good publicity, as Erica Jones of Kent PR agency Maxim explains.

January, 2015 more

Why 'no comment' is not the answer

If a journalist asks you a question, there is very rarely an occasion when ‘no comment’ is the right answer.

January, 2015 more

Early engagement improves planning prospects

Getting embroiled in a battle with local residents is both costly and can significantly delay development on site. Developers need to get their community engagement right first time if they are to avoid a lengthy and expensive appeal.

September, 2014 more

What PR lessons can we draw from the World Cup?

Billions of people around the world switched on and saw Germany win the final of the World Cup. When selecting your PR agency there are a few football analogies that you can think about. Andy Rayfield, PR Manager at Maxim and Arsenal season ticket holder, considers the issue.

July, 2014 more

PR has to be earned - it’s not free

There is no such thing as free PR. Businesses who think that PR is free rarely, if ever, get the full benefit of it as a way of building trust and engaging with their customers.

June, 2014 more

How does PR link with digital?

Andrew Metcalf has recently spoken about the relationship between PR and digital at Digital in Kent and West Kent B2B. Here he outlines the lifecycle of a news story, from first tweeted rumour to full press coverage.

June, 2014 more

A Barnes-tormer of a PR disaster

Asked by BBC Radio Kent to join them in the studio, Maxim’s Andrew Metcalf watched as the Kent & Medway Police & Crime Panel quizzed Ann Barnes on the reasoning behind her decision to take part in the now infamous C4 ‘Meet the Commissioner’ programme. He then went on to give his views live on air on her performance.

June, 2014 more

‘Dear Journalist’ – how to get a press release deleted immediately

The relationship between journalists and PRs can often be easily undermined by a badly targeted, poorly written press release, which can damage a client’s reputation.

May, 2014 more

How to create great content

At the recent Digital in Kent conference Andrew Metcalf hosted a workshop about writing great content. Here, he sums up the main points from his speech.

March, 2014 more

The key to getting results from your PR

Nothing highlights the difference between lazy and inspired PR more than the press release frenzy that is Valentine’s Day.

February, 2014 more

Time called on newspaper photographers

As one newspaper group announces it is phasing out photographers it's increasingly important you provide a good quality image with your press release. We offer some tips to get your picture past the editor

February, 2014 more

History Student inspired by Twentieth Century Marketing

History student Lucy Darbon, 20, gives an insight into why she was inspired to apply for work experience at Maxim.

January, 2014 more

How to prepare for a media interview

Imagine you have an interview with a journalist that could have a positive impact on your business, or perhaps mitigate the damage of a negative story – how should you prepare? Kent PR agency Maxim provides some top tips.

January, 2014 more

How to handle criticism on social media sites

Many organisations are fearful of receiving negative comments on sites such as Twitter and Facebook. Rachel Knight, who advises clients on social media at Kent PR agency Maxim, provides tips on how to handle criticism online.

January, 2014 more

Top tips to become a PR agency's perfect client

Over the years I have been fortunate enough to have worked with some great organisations but what makes the perfect client?

January, 2014 more

Bloggers beware says ASA

With bloggers having an increasing influence over consumers and the general public, many brands are increasingly offering authors money to write a positive piece on behalf of a company, with the danger that it could break the Advertising Code.

December, 2013 more

Quick action secures press coverage

We are often telling clients that being flexible helps to secure press coverage and it is always nice to see that piece of advice being acted upon.

November, 2013 more

How to avoid irritating a journalist

Our top tips on how not to irritate a journalist include avoiding follow up calls and jargon.

October, 2013 more

A common sense guide to Twitter

Do you need a helping hand with Twitter? Here are a few helpful hints for businesses using the social network.

September, 2013 more

Marmite accused of bad taste

It looks like the nation’s ability to laugh at itself is on the decline, if the recent furore over the Marmite advert is anything to go by.

August, 2013 more

PR industry has own PR problem

Given that PR is all about developing and protecting reputations, why isn’t the industry bathed in glory? Andrew Metcalf, director at Kent PR agency Maxim, looks at the issues.

August, 2013 more

BlackBerry rings the changes

Smartphone maker BlackBerry is learning the lessons of failing to keep up with the competition from Apple and Samsung the hard way, and is now considering putting itself up for sale.

July, 2013 more

Timely challenge to influence Vatican

When Pope Benedict XVI surprised the world and resigned there was a rare opportunity for Roman Catholics seeking changes within the church to voice their opinions, spark debate and try to influence his successor. Find out how we helped.

May, 2013 more

A dozen gems from Digital in Kent

Rachel Knight shares her thoughts on some of the points that were made at Digital in Kent - a conference that covered SEO, PPC and social media.

April, 2013 more

Death of the deadline confirmed

With the unrelenting march of the smartphone and tablet, the great British public is getting a growing proportion of its news digitally. As a result, the deadline is now well and truly dead.

March, 2013 more

Findus fiasco is recipe for reputation damage

In the world of PR and crisis communications hindsight is a wonderful thing, especially when it comes to not falling at the first fence, as recently done by Findus.

March, 2013 more

Print versus online press coverage

Do you ever think about where your company news appears? Rachel Knight, Account Director at Maxim, considers the issues of print versus online.

February, 2013 more

Keep calm and communicate

We have many years’ experience working with clients to promote their good news. However, companies also need to prepare for the prospect of an event which could damage their hard earned reputation. Here are 10 issues to consider when managing a crisis.

January, 2013 more

Avoid shooting the messenger

Social media and digital marketing are not yet delivering the perfect solution for building relationships with customers. But is it too easy to start blaming the messenger rather than the message?

January, 2013 more

"Good morning, Minister..."

The visit of a government Minister can be a priceless endorsement for a business and help to raise its profile - take a look at recent examples.

December, 2012 more

A poor brief is pants

Appointing a PR and marketing agency: where do you start? The first, and most important thing to do is develop and agree a brief, which is realistic, deliverable and above all is consistent with your company’s broader business plan.

December, 2012 more

Increasing your editorial profile?

Successful media relations isn't just about the news value of the individual story, it's also to do with how you present the story.

November, 2012 more

Facebook - the search for those elusive likes

With one billion active users, nobody can deny that Facebook is a popular social network. But if you are the administrator of a company page, how do you encourage those users to visit and like it? Maxim’s Rachel Knight looks into advertising on the site.

October, 2012 more

Return on investment

Appointing the agency is relatively easy, but the hard work’s only just begun. The challenge is how to translate news into column inches and tangible new business.

August, 2012 more

Ten questions to ask your prospective PR agency

You’ve spent hours developing the brief, despatched it to a number of prospective agencies, read their proposals and shortlisted the lucky three, or four, for interview – but what questions should you ask them when you see the whites of their eyes?

June, 2012 more

Is the latest social media network of Pinterest?

Barely a month goes by without news of another social network that you simply ‘must’ join. Maxim’s Rachel Knight takes a look at the newest kid on the social media block - Pinterest.

March, 2012 more

'Off the record' - does it really work?

Many believe that verbally agreeing with a journalist that their comments will be ‘Off the record’ means they won’t be quoted, and therefore will be protected. However, that’s not the case in today’s 24/7 news world, and arguably never has been.

February, 2012 more

Crisis comms must have sound foundations

Excellent communication with customers, stakeholders and investors is central to good crisis management. But too often now, poor comms delivery is being used as a smokescreen to avoid addressing much more serious business issues.

October, 2011 more

Reputation matters

Everybody likes to have people think well of them and businesses are no different. Andrew Metcalf, director at Maxim, examines the issue of a business’ reputation and its management.

January, 2011 more

Snow joke for commuters

It has become obvious that the UK simply cannot deal with the amount of snow that has fallen recently. We look at how quickly a reputation can be damaged.

December, 2010 more