The not so complete guide to media relations. The media landscaped has changed and will continue to change, shift and evolve. Guess what? As seekers of press or media opportunities, you have to know what the media is looking for. It does not matter if you are in London, New York, Houston or Belize, the rules in media tend to be the same – give people news they can use and care about.
Here are 3 tips that’s worked for me when approaching the press. Ready? Let’s go:
Read all about it
🥁 Watch the news or read the magazine’s aligned with you or your client. I know you may think this is a no brainer but there are plenty of people that do not watch the news and yet desire to be on there. If you aren’t watching the news, the people you are marketing to or wishing to connect with may not either. So yes, watch the news, read the newspaper, buy the magazine and listen to the podcast and get familiar with the subject matter.
A picture is worth a thousand words or press hits
🥁 Provide clear and vibrant visuals or other assets for media professionals to use. Send a link they can access and cap it at 3-4 photos. Media moves quickly and if it takes 10 minutes to download and 20 minutes to find the photos or visuals they likely will not use it. If they ask for more photos, have them ready to send.
Be ready
🥁 There is no guaranteed coverage or control of the message in PR. I worked on an incredible and timely pitch for an event and former President Bush passed away. Instantly our story was shifted to accommodate the number of stories the outlet would air about him. Landing coverage makes people happy and everyone wins. The reporter gets a quality story with stunning visuals and you or your company get to share a story with the masses. However, be aware that anything can occur, which results in your story being delayed, postponed or cancelled. #mediatips#mediarelations#pitching
