How many times should you follow up?
How often should you follow up? The truth is, once it's in their hands as a story, you can't really control it. The only thing you control is what message you're putting out there. I will often ask them, "Listen, are you going to put a sidebar in?" The sidebar is where they actually put your product name and how to contact you. I'll ask those things. I'll tell you, the PR agencies spend a fortune with their clients convincing them that, "Oh yes, we'll get something out every month." They call it a rhythm method or a drum beat.
Truthfully, I've had reporters say to me, "I can't stand it. We hate when people do that." Reporters won't run your story immediately unless you have a real story that ties into something, or you have a comment on a local happening that's trendy and timely, terrific. Other than that, give them a pitch.
I'd say every three to four months is plenty. It's enough to keep you foremost in their mind without bugging them. For more tips on follow ups and publicity, read "Failproof Ways to Follow Up After Sending a News Release or Pitch Letter."
http://101publicrelations.com/failprooffollowup.html?utm_source=prideas&utm_content=fail-proof_follow-up

