#Japan #Setagaya #Medichan #MCPR #Ayako Otosaka

Unlocking the Power of PR: A Seminar for Successor Presidents

In the competitive landscape of small to mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), those in leadership positions face unique challenges. Understanding how to effectively communicate a company's strengths can be the key to overcoming obstacles, particularly for successor presidents of companies with annual sales of around 1 billion yen and fewer than 50 employees. To address these challenges, the company MC PR, led by Ayako Otosaka, will host a seminar titled "Discovering Your Company's Hidden Strengths to Achieve Success in Recruitment and Sales through PR" on January 21, 2026.

About the Seminar

With a wealth of experience as a former idol from the late 1980s and as a TV reporter, Otosaka combines her media expertise and public relations (PR) knowledge to empower small businesses. Her initiative, “Medichan,” was established in 2022 to provide targeted PR training for business owners. This seminar aims to dispel the myth that PR is solely for large corporations and to equip successors with practical skills for telling their company’s story effectively.

The Importance of PR for Succession Presidents

As Otosaka points out, many successor presidents often overlook their company’s unique strengths, mistakenly assuming they are self-evident. This oversight can lead to significant barriers such as being trapped in price wars or struggling to attract qualified talent. By participating in this seminar, attendees will learn how to recognize their company's exceptional attributes and communicate them effectively.

Event Details

• - Title: Essential for Modern Management! Revealing PR Marketing Secrets Unknown to Big Corporations
• - Date & Time: January 21, 2026, 18:00 - 19:30 (JST)
• - Format: Online
• - Cost: Free
• - Hosted by: Think Shift, Inc.

Key Topics Covered

1. Understanding PR in the Modern Era: A comprehensive overview to clarify its significance.
2. Difference Between Advertising and PR: Tips on internalizing PR efforts.
3. Successful Case Studies: Real-life examples to inspire practical applications.
4. Interactive Exercise: Engage in a media brain game focusing on strategy development.

The Challenge of Crossing the 1 Billion Yen Barrier

Approximately 3-5% of all SMEs in Japan achieve annual sales of around 1 billion yen. However, they often encounter formidable challenges such as leadership limits and team structuring issues. To navigate these obstacles successfully, business leaders must articulate their vision, implement organized marketing strategies, and invest in the development of management staff. Transitioning from singular leadership to a collective growth framework is critical for overcoming this barrier.

The Economic Backbone of Japan: SMEs

A staggering number of around 3.3 million SMEs are fundamental to Japan’s economy. As highlighted by the Big Mac Index, Japan’s economic standing has fluctuated, ranking low among 54 countries. To revitalize the economy, it is vital for SMEs to adopt PR strategies that raise awareness and drive engagement.

Why PR Matters for SMEs

Small businesses often perceive PR as a service reserved for larger companies, but it offers substantial advantages for smaller firms:
1. Enhancing Recognition and Trust: PR can significantly elevate company visibility and credibility through media coverage.
2. Attracting Talent: Showcasing a positive company culture through PR can effectively draw in potential job applicants.
3. Differentiation and Brand Strengthening: A focused PR approach helps businesses carve out a niche in crowded markets, thus avoiding price competition.
4. Maximized Marketing Efforts: Increasing media visibility through PR can bolster marketing strategies and sales performance.
5. Cost-Effective Impact: Unlike traditional advertising, PR often incurs no costs for placements, offering an excellent return on investment.

Otosaka's Vision

As the primary instructor, Otosaka, also known as the “PR Gal,” believes that if small companies learn to harness the power of PR, they can significantly contribute to Japan’s economic revival. Her goal is to guide aspiring entrepreneurs in thoroughly understanding their societal contributions and seizing the valuable opportunities presented by media engagement.

For more information about the seminar and MC PR, visit Medichan's Official Website or follow Ayako Otosaka on Instagram. Join us in advancing the conversation around effective PR strategies and transforming your business potential.