When a journalist comes calling, you should not be coy and or evasive about the truth. If you're embarrassed or unwilling to talk about your business' problem, you're closing off a wonderful opportunity to get free publicity for yourself.

Of course you won't want to reveal specific financial statistics, but the more information you can give a reporter, the better chance they'll use you as a key part of their story. Answer the reporter's questions truthfully and you gain credibility because you're not hiding anything.

Spend the 20-30 minutes to really give a reporter what they want. Of course, don't overload them with useless information, but give them the golden nuggets they're looking for, and they'll use you as a centerpiece in their story. The best way to lose potential publicity is by refusing to comment!

Read more tips like this in The Fastest, Cheapest, Easiest Ways to Publicize Your Small Busines--Even if You're a Solo Entrepreneur.