Many people overlook letters to the editor as a valuable publicity tool. Yet editors always welcome timely, compelling, controversial letters. Be on the lookout for every opportunity to write one.

Think of clever ways to weave into the letter what you do, how you can help people and your areas of expertise. As you read letters in publications you would like to get into, notice how the letter-writers publicize their own businesses without making it sound like a heavy-handed sales pitch. They might do it by starting the letter with the phrases, "As the owner of.." Example: "As the owner of one of the few vegetarian restaurants in Elmwood, I loved your recent story on.." Then sign the letter with your name and the name of your business.

To learn more about how to write a great letter, and what should be included in order to get free publicity for your business, see Special Report #9, "How to Generate Free Publicity for Your New Business"