As 2025 approaches, the public relations (PR) industry stands at a crossroads of technological innovation, shifting audience expectations, and evolving media landscapes. To thrive, PR professionals need to anticipate emerging trends and adapt their strategies to meet new challenges. Here are four of my predictions for the future of PR in 2025.
1) AI-powered PR strategies will expand
The influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in PR workflows is undeniable. According to recent industry research, 64% of respondents use AI to write social copy, 58% leverage it for research and press release writing, and 54% use it to craft pitches. Similarly, the PR Newswire 2024 State of the Press Release report revealed that over a quarter (26%) of communicators are already using generative AI to create press release content, while nearly half (42%) are open to adopting the technology in the future. In 2025, the integration of AI will deepen even more across all facets of the PR industry. Generative AI tools, which already help with writing press releases, proofreading content, and conducting research, will play an even more central role. For example, tools will evolve to generate fully tailored media pitches, while platforms will leverage AI even more to analyze news cycles, identify trends, and provide actionable insights in real time.
A key area of expansion will be crisis management. AI’s ability to scan social media and digital chatter for negative sentiment or emerging controversies can help brands proactively address issues before they escalate. For instance, during a product recall, AI could instantly identify which demographics are most affected and recommend targeted messaging to manage the fallout.
However, with greater adoption comes the need for caution. AI is not a substitute for human creativity or empathy—qualities essential for crafting authentic and emotionally resonant messaging. As I’ve voiced before, we need to save room for human intelligence. As generative AI becomes more prevalent, PR professionals will need to strike a balance between AI-driven efficiency and the personal touch that defines successful public relations. AI might draft a press release, but it’s the human team that ensures the tone aligns with the brand’s voice and values. Imagine a fashion brand launching a global campaign, for example. AI could analyze regional style trends and suggest tailored visuals and messaging for different markets. But the final decision—ensuring cultural sensitivity and creative alignment—remains in human hands.
2) Authenticity and transparency will be at a premium
As AI becomes a cornerstone of PR, stakeholders and audiences will demand greater transparency in how it is used. In 2025, brands that rely heavily on AI tools will need to be upfront about its role in their campaigns. For example, disclosing that an AI-generated press release was reviewed and approved by a human team could become a standard practice. A tech company announcing a groundbreaking innovation might use AI to generate media kits and visualizations. By explicitly stating how AI contributed to the campaign—perhaps as part of their commitment to innovation—the brand demonstrates transparency while reinforcing its identity as a forward-thinking leader.
Failure to disclose AI’s involvement could result in significant reputational damage. Consider the backlash faced by some brands accused of passing off AI-generated art or content as human-created. Audiences felt deceived, leading to a loss of trust. By 2025, consumers will be even more discerning, expecting full transparency not just in products and services but also in the processes that shape their perception of brands.
PR professionals will play a vital role in navigating this landscape. They must craft messaging that emphasizes the responsible use of AI and ensures it aligns with a brand’s values. Additionally, clear internal policies around AI usage will become essential, helping brands avoid potential missteps.
3) Localized PR strategies will grow
Globalization has long been a focus for PR teams, but in 2025, the pendulum will swing towards localization. In increasingly fragmented markets, one-size-fits-all campaigns will no longer suffice. Instead, brands will need to craft hyper-targeted strategies that resonate with specific regions, cultures, and communities.
Localized PR involves more than translating a press release—it requires understanding local customs, values, and social nuances. Brands that embrace this trend will collaborate with regional influencers, tailor messaging to address local concerns, and leverage data analytics to track regional engagement. For instance, a global food brand might need to prioritize plant-based ingredients and sustainability messaging to align with local preferences.
Or consider a smartphone brand expanding into South America. A localized PR strategy might include partnerships with regional tech reviewers and launch events that reflect local culture, such as community tech fairs. Ignoring these nuances risks alienating audiences and losing market share to competitors who “speak their language.”
The rise of regional influencers, or “micro-influencers,” will further drive this trend. These individuals, with smaller but highly engaged audiences, can offer an authenticity that global influencers might lack. PR teams will need to invest time in building meaningful relationships with these local creators to ensure campaign success.
4) Micro-media and niche platforms will become more vital
The traditional media landscape continues to shrink, with many outlets reducing staff or closing entirely. In response, micro-media platforms—like Substack newsletters, independent blogs, and niche podcasts—are flourishing. These channels cater to highly specific audiences, offering brands an opportunity to connect with consumers in a more personalized way.
By 2025, PR teams will increasingly focus on cultivating relationships with these independent content creators. While teams once aimed for coverage in national newspapers, they’ll now focus on securing mentions in specialized newsletters or features on niche YouTube channels. For instance, a lifestyle brand launching a new product might pitch to a popular Substack writer specializing in sustainable living rather than relying solely on coverage from major outlets. The ability to identify and pitch the right creators will be a critical skill for PR professionals in this evolving landscape, not only ensuring targeted reach but also allowing brands to bypass the gatekeeping of traditional media.
TikTok and other short-form video platforms will also play a growing role. PR campaigns will need to prioritize visually engaging content tailored for these platforms, as well as authentic storytelling that resonates with younger audiences. Tailored multimedia assets, such as bite-sized videos or infographics, will be key to standing out.
Preparing for 2025: Embracing change in PR
The PR industry in 2025 will be shaped by the dual forces of technological innovation and evolving audience expectations. From AI-powered efficiencies to the need for transparency, localized strategies, and niche media engagement, PR professionals must adapt their playbooks to remain relevant. Success will require a blend of technological savvy, cultural awareness, and human creativity—qualities that have always defined the best of PR. By embracing these trends, PR teams can position their brands for success in an ever-changing world.
This article was originally published in Bulldog Reporter.