Why Media Members Aren’t Calling You
Don’t Forget the “Relations” in “Public Relations” (or PR)!
When you appear in the media that your target market pays attention to, you receive third-party credibility you can’t get in any other way. This is because it’s not advertising or a paid placement; it’s what public relations, or PR, is all about. You may already know this. Perhaps you tried sending out a press release… and nothing happened, so you gave up on PR.
Well, hold on. Let’s start fresh!
Here’s what really works to get media attention…
1. Research.
Discover what your targeted, audience members are paying attention to and focus on those media venues.
Then, find out who the key reporters, producers, podcasters, bloggers, etc. are at those venues who talk about your industry, community, news, business, etc. Learn a little bit about them and how you can provide value before you…
2. Make Contact!
Remember, public relations is about the “relations” you have with the public – and this includes
media members. As you contact them, prepare to introduce yourself and let them know what you have
to offer.
It’s about starting a relationship where you provide ideas, news, case studies, and other beneficial information that they can share with their audiences.
It’s about being a helpful resource… not a pesky “pitcher” who’s always asking for something and not giving anything in return!
3. Go With The Flow.
Creating relationships with specific media members takes time, so try to be patient. Just be aware that once they know that you are available to help them, they will start to contact you for quotes, statistics, industry updates, and more… on a regular basis.
Then, you’ll appear in key media venues as a trusted resource, and the competition will wonder how you became an “overnight success”!
PR Is About Relationships.
If you want to take advantage of free media placements that can significantly boost sales, awareness and credibility for your business, practice, products, and/or services, set time aside to create real relationships. Conduct appropriate research, share beneficial information with targeted media members and become a valuable resource. Then, you will enjoy all of the benefits of public relations… including a competitive edge you can’t get any other way!