Green fingered youngsters living at Barratt West Midlands’ Monarch Fields development entered into a competition this month to grow the tallest sunflower. A prize will be awarded to the winner in September.

Some of the children with their seedlings ready to plant.

The importance of effective marketing and PR has never been so apparent. Take the recent election for example. Much has been made of forgotten microphones, misplaced statements, media appearances and if the formation of a coalition government will be accepted.

What is clear is the power of our, the public’s, perceptions. Reputation management, whether it be how you market services or products, present your current affairs and the way in which you recruit and expand is crucial for success especially in such a tough economic environment.

One slip, even of the tongue, could be very costly!