15 Best PR Agencies in Chicago 2024 (Updated)

While researching the best PR agencies in Chicago, I couldn’t help but remember my journey and experience in the marketing industry. A position where I was faced with a situation of searching for the ideal firm to help me build my brand. In a simpler term, the procedure was intimidating, but with the required support, I was able to locate a genuine partner who completely changed my business’s direction.

In this post, I’m excited to share with you the 15 best PR Agencies in Chicago for 2024. These firms are the greatest in the industry; they are not just your average agents, but the ones who genuinely get the value of brand tracking tools and know how to use them to their greatest advantage. As you explore these agencies, keep in mind that the right fit can make all the difference in the world. It’s not just about their capabilities, but also their cultural alignment with your business. After all, a successful PR partnership is built on trust, open communication, and a shared vision for success.

Key Takeaways

The best PR agencies in Chicago display their unique strengths and industry expertise, which is also known for their ability to align with client’s needs, deliver creative campaigns, and provide strategic communication solutions.
Effective PR goes beyond press releases to include crafting strategic narratives fueled by insights, essential for brand success in today’s data-driven world.
PR agencies find clients through various strategies such as personalized outreach, social media, networking, industry events, and referrals and such efforts help agencies attract new business opportunities and maintain a strong client base.

15 Best PR Agencies in Chicago

So, without further ado, dive into the 15 best PR agencies in Chicago for 2024.

Edelman
FleishmanHillard
Weber Shandwick
Golin
Zeno Group
Paramount Public Relations
KemperLesnik
Gatesman
Page One Public Relations
myWHY Agency
Burson Cohn & Wolfe
Walker Sands
Finn Partners
Porter Novelli
Heron Agency

Discover Chicago’s Top 15 Agencies in 2024

#1. Edelman

Edelman is one of the largest PR agencies in the world, with a strong presence in Chicago. Their expertise lies in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. The agency values transparency and authenticity, which are reflected in their work. What stood out to me about Edelman was their deep bench of talent. The account leads I worked with were seasoned pros who brought a wealth of expertise, they were always very thoughtful in aligning the right people to our account based on their specific skills and experience.

#2. FleishmanHillard

FleishmanHillard is another prominent PR agency in Chicago. With a global network of offices, they offer a wide range of services, including media relations, crisis management, and digital communications. What I also admire about FleishmanHillard is its ability to assemble the right cross-functional teams for each client’s unique needs. They have experts spanning disciplines like crisis communication, public affairs, social media, and more. The collaboration and coordination between the different practice areas are always seamless.

#3. Weber Shandwick

I’ve had the opportunity to work with Weber Shandwick on several occasions, and I’ve always been impressed by their relentless client focus and creative problem-solving. As one of the largest PR firms in the world and with a strong presence in Chicago, they have incredible resources and expertise at their disposal – but they use that scale to truly customize their approach for each client. The agency has a diverse client portfolio, ranging from healthcare and technology to consumer brands.

#4. Golin

Golin is a Chicago-based PR agency that prides itself on being “unconventional.” They have a unique approach called “The G4 Model,” which focuses on creating emotional connections between brands and their target audiences. Golin places a strong emphasis on creativity and storytelling, with a belief that great ideas can drive business results. The agency has a diverse client base, spanning industries such as food and beverage, healthcare, and technology. Golin has received numerous industry awards for its innovative campaigns.

#5. Zeno Group

Zeno Group, as a leading PR and communications agency, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table – but what sets them apart is their ability to truly understand and align with the unique needs of each client. They offer a range of services, including brand strategy, media relations, and influencer marketing. Zeno focuses on data-driven insights to develop effective communication strategies. And they know how to seamlessly integrate those different capabilities to deliver holistic, integrated solutions. Collaboration and coordination is always top-notch.

#6. Paramount Public Relations

Paramount Public Relations offers a range of services, including media relations, social media management, and event planning. Beyond their strategic brilliance, the Paramount team is also just a joy to work with on a day-to-day basis. They’re responsive, organized, and always go the extra mile to ensure smooth execution. I’ve never had to worry about things failing on any given task when Paramount is involved. They’re true partners who are invested in our mutual success.

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#7. KemperLesnik

KemperLesnik is a Chicago-based PR agency that specializes in sports and entertainment marketing. They have a strong track record of working with sports organizations, brands, and events. KemperLesnik offers services such as media relations, event management, and sponsorship activation. If you’re looking for a full-sport service Chicago PR agency that can tackle any challenge, I highly recommend giving KemperLesnik a look. Their proven track record of success and their passion for what they do make them a fantastic partner.

#8. Gatesman

Gatesman is a relatively newer player in the Chicago PR scene, but they’ve quickly made a name for themselves as a force to be reckoned with. What sets Gatesman apart, in my experience, is their unwavering commitment to data-driven strategies and measurable results. They have experience in various industries, including healthcare, technology, and consumer goods. Gatesman prides itself on its collaborative approach, working closely with clients to understand their unique needs and develop effective strategies.

#9. Page One Public Relations

Page One Public Relations is a boutique PR agency based in Chicago. What I appreciate most about Page One is their deep industry expertise. Many of their team members have spent years, if not decades, working in specific verticals like healthcare, finance, or technology. This allows them to hit the ground running, developing nuanced, hyper-targeted PR strategies that leverage their intimate knowledge of the relevant media landscape, competitive dynamics, and audience pain points.

#10. myWHY Agency

myWHY Agency is a unique Chicago PR firm that I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with on a few projects. What sets them apart, in my experience, is their unwavering commitment to purpose-driven communication and social impact. They believe that every brand has a unique “why” that can inspire and engage audiences. myWHY Agency offers services such as brand strategy, media relations, and content creation. They have experience working with mission-driven organizations and brands across various sectors, including non-profits, healthcare, and sustainability.

#11. Burson Cohn & Wolfe

Burson Cohn & Wolfe is a global PR agency that has established a strong presence in Chicago. They have consistently delivered exceptional results for their clients. I had the opportunity to collaborate with them on a project, and I was impressed by their attention to detail and their ability to think outside the box. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly understood the needs and goals of the client. It was a pleasure working with them, and their dedication to achieving success was evident throughout the entire process.

#12. Walker Sands

Walker Sands is another prominent PR agency in Chicago that specializes in technology and B2B industries. One of the things that sets Walker Sands apart is their commitment to data-driven decision-making. I had the chance to witness their expertise firsthand when I attended one of their events. The team at Walker Sands was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the work they do. They have a genuine understanding of the industry and were able to provide valuable insights and recommendations.

#13. Finn Partners

Finn Partners is a force to be reckoned with in the Chicago PR landscape, and I do not doubt that it will continue to grow and thrive in the years to come. Their team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, and they have a proven track record of delivering exceptional results for their clients. Their team was proactive, and creative, and always went above and beyond to ensure the success of the campaign. It was refreshing to see their dedication and passion for their craft.

#14. Porter Novelli

Porter Novelli is a renowned PR agency with a solid reputation in Chicago. Their approach is centred around storytelling and creating impactful narratives. I had the opportunity to witness their storytelling prowess during a conference where they presented a case study. Their ability to craft compelling narratives that resonated with the audience was truly remarkable. Porter Novelli is committed to making a difference and creating meaningful connections through their work.

#15. Heron Agency

Heron Agency is a boutique PR agency in Chicago that specializes in the lifestyle and hospitality industries. One of the things that sets Heron Agency apart is its commitment to creativity and its willingness to think outside the box. They are not afraid to challenge the status quo and try new approaches to achieving their client’s goals, and they have a keen eye for emerging trends and opportunities that can help their clients to stay ahead of the curve.

Each of these PR agencies brings unique strengths and expertise to the table.

Benefits of the Best PR Agencies in Chicago in 2024S

Expertise and Experience: The top PR agencies in Chicago have a wealth of expertise and experience in the industry. They have worked with a diverse range of clients and have a deep understanding of various sectors, allowing them to provide strategic guidance and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
Reputation Management: PR agencies excel in managing and enhancing the reputation of their clients. They have the skills and knowledge to navigate complex situations, handle crises, and protect your brand’s image.
Media Relations: PR agencies have established relationships with journalists, editors, and media outlets. They can help you secure media coverage, arrange interviews, and generate positive publicity for your brand.
Strategic Communication: PR agencies are skilled in crafting compelling messages and developing effective communication strategies. They can help you refine your brand’s messaging, target the right audience, and deliver your key messages in a clear and impactful way.
Digital PR and Social Media: In today’s digital age, PR agencies understand the importance of online presence and social media. They can help you develop and implement digital PR strategies, manage your social media platforms, and engage with your online audience.
Creative Campaigns: The best PR agencies in Chicago are known for their creativity and innovative campaigns. They can develop unique and attention-grabbing ideas that resonate with your target audience.
Measurable Results: PR agencies focus on delivering measurable results. They set clear objectives, track key performance indicators, and provide regular reports on the progress and impact of their efforts.

How Much Should You Pay a PR Agency?

The cost of hiring a PR agency can vary widely depending on several factors, but here are some general guidelines that I’ve put together to help you understand

Boutique PR agencies charge a monthly retainer of $2,000-$5,000 or more.
Large PR agencies with over 50 employees usually have monthly retainers starting from $25,000. They are best suited for large corporations or multinational campaigns.
On average, PR retainers can range from $1,500 to $10,000 per month. Larger agencies tend to charge $500+ per hour, while smaller agencies cost as little as $125 per hour.

When deciding on a PR agency, consider your goals, budget, and the expertise of the firm’s staff. Hiring a PR agency is an investment, so find one whose goals align with yours. The cost should align with the impact you expect your PR firm to have on your business goals. Be transparent about your budget and expectations when discussing fees with potential agencies.

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How do I Join a PR Agency?

Joining a PR agency involves developing skills and experience through education and internships, researching and targeting agencies that match your interests, preparing for the hiring process by showcasing your abilities, and excelling in your role by collaborating, learning, and growing within the agency. By combining relevant education, experience, and industry knowledge, you can position yourself for success in the dynamic field of public relations.

How do I Find a Good PR Agent?

To find the right PR agency, identify your goals, evaluate the agency’s portfolio, align with your brand’s values, establish clear communication, consider the long-term fit, and seek references from past clients. By understanding your business needs, and evaluating the agency’s expertise, resources, and adaptability, you can make an informed decision that effectively represents your brand and helps achieve your PR goals. Remember, in today’s data-driven world, effective PR goes beyond press releases. It’s about crafting a strategic narrative fueled by insights, and that’s the key to unlocking true brand success.

How do PR Agencies Find Clients?

PR agencies use various strategies to find clients, including updating marketing materials, writing personalized letters, conducting thorough research, using social media, advertising online, networking both online and offline, contributing to business publications, participating in industry events, asking for referrals, and following up with leads. These strategies help agencies grow their business and attract new clients, ultimately leading to successful conversions and new business opportunities.

How Much is PR a Month?

PR agencies charge a monthly retainer ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, with larger agencies starting at $25,000. PR retainers can range from $1,500 to $10,000. Solopreneurs and less experienced firms may charge around $4,000, while larger premium agencies charge $25,000+ monthly. Boutique firms charge between $12,000 and $18,000 monthly. Hourly rates for PR services at larger agencies range from $150 to $250 per hour. For an annual PR budget of $400,000+, hire an agency with $20 million+ in revenue, for $180,000, a boutique firm under $10 million, or consider a freelancer for $60,000.

Conclusion

In summary, these PR agencies in Chicago have proven themselves to be leaders in the industry, each with their unique approach and strengths. Whether it’s strategic thinking, storytelling prowess, or building meaningful connections, they have consistently delivered exceptional results for their clients. Working with them has been a valuable experience, and I have witnessed firsthand their commitment to excellence and their passion for making a difference in the world of PR. Remember, finding the right fit is essential, so take the time to research, ask questions, and trust your instincts. Now, it’s over to you. Which PR agency are you most excited to work with, and how do you envision PR shaping the future of your brand?