New local company looks to bring honest conversation to public relations

Today marks the official launch of Honest PR + Creative, a communications agency designed to lead businesses in branding and mission focused delivery.

Holly Bechiri, former Managing Editor of The Rapidian and Marjorie Steele, an independent consultant and copywriter, combine their backgrounds in writing, fine arts and marketing to bring a tailored approach to business communications. Bechiri and Steele said they recognize a growing need for transparent corporate communication, prompting their partnership and agency.

“I think there are a lot of people working on very impactful things throughout our community, in areas of equity, access and creativity and our hope is that we can help those people better communicate what they are doing. And why it matters so very much to strengthen Grand Rapids in these areas, and so many more,” says Bechiri.

Honest PR + Creative will offer brand development and journalism, editing, proposal development, diversity and inclusion communications consulting, mixed-media design, handlettering, and content strategy.

“We knew we would be fast friends the first night we met and discovered we had some not-so-common things very much in common. We've had a chance to work together on some projects for The Rapidian since then, and it's always been a really perfect collaboration. We have a lot of complimentary skills and I'm thrilled to get to combine them,” says Bechiri.

Given the social media climate and immediate response through the internet, Bechiri and Steele hope to guide clients with strategic planning.

“A lot of times, the growth area isn't even a lack of transparency but rather a fear of the new ways that the digital social world creates opportunities for businesses and organizations to be open and tell a more true story. That can be scary. We're not used to all of the instant feedback that the social media world represents. I get that. But the rewards of a strategic process of becoming more authentic and open in your communications are so great,” says Bechiri.

It's not all about apologizing, Steele says.

“Ideally, you learn from your mistakes and stop making them. But owning up to them when you do make them, and making amends, is absolutely huge. It converts opponents into allies. It’s that sense of ownership in your actions that people crave,” she says.

Steele emphasizes the importance of helping companies with the clarity of their message.

“Honesty is about doing what you say: making good on your mission,” says Steele. "That’s the conversation we want to have. How are you making good on your mission? Let’s tell that story."

Note: Holly Bechiri is a former employee of The Rapidian. The author of the article, Mariah Kennedy, served as a former intern.