Public Relations Tips: Publicity

When you shoot a photo at a ceremony, make it matter. "Instead of shooting an award ceremony," suggests Phil Douglis, director of the Douglis Visual Workshops, publicists should "ask themselves who will benefit from the award or check or medal. Then go shoot the benefits. Instead of taking a picture of a man who set up a therapy center for mentally ill people getting a medal for his efforts, good public relations people will go to the therapy center, shoot real people involved in real benefits, and sell the idea to the press. This is the ultimate value of publicity pictures-to sell news, features, benefits-instead of superficial awards and ceremonies."

If you must take pictures of a ceremony, try to have your photos capture the feelings of the people taking part. Aim to show why the ceremony is important: what it means. Ask yourself why this ceremony is different from every other ceremony and how you can show that difference on film. Another question to ask yourself is why you want these pictures. What message are you trying to convey to your audience? How will these pictures carry that message?

For more great ceremony photos (or lack thereof) advice, and for more tips on how to make those ceremony photos really matter see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

How should you pitch a satellite tour to local stations? Then I wouldn't actually spend that much time pitching the local media, unless they're actually going to be there, because I think it's a lot of time and energy on your part that's not well spent, truthfully. I would focus in on where that person lives, and get him or her there. Or you can go in on a local level and say, "OK, listen. On this one day, we're going to have the feed. Will you pick it up? And here's why you should pick it up, and here's what's great about it." That would be the call I'd make.

I just really would stay focused on why would a local television station.if he's not going to be a live studio guest, my guess is they'll only pick it up as a broader interest story, and that that's really the storyline you have to stay with. For more publicity and follow-up tips, 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

Posted by Dan at 07:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If you want your product photo to be published you have to find out a few things, like whether they will take the picture, or if you will. One way to get a photo published is to shoot it yourself. Smaller publications will frequently depend on you for photographs, but there may be occasions when even a sophisticated large daily with a big staff will use your publicity shot. "In some cases, publicity photos are useful because there's no way we can get a picture quickly ourselves," says one newspaper's photo editor. But, he goes on to say, "I think the rules for pictures we accept from publicists should be the same as the rules we impose on our own staff photographers." In other words, your publicity picture has to be as good as the shots taken by the publication's regular photographers.

To learn more about publicity photos, and how you can get your publicity photos published whether you shoot the photo, they shoot the photo, or you loan them a product and someone else shoots the photo, read David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 01:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Journalists call news pictures art. Not art in the sense of museum pieces, but communication art. Good news photographers think through their pictures before they shoot, and they take their work very seriously. Publicists, unfortunately, usually give pictures short shrift.

As Larry Kramer of the Trenton Times points out, "art from businesses is notoriously bad. So a good business item with an interesting handout picture stands a better chance of making it. And there are stories that make page one because there was art with them."

The same is true for art from nonprofit organizations, trade associations, and government agencies. The photo editor quoted above amplifies on this: "Publicity photos we get are staid and unimaginative. That's why they seldom get in the paper. Ninety-nine percent of the photographers who take publicity photos have not had newspaper experience and don't know what we want. We want good action photos. Since publicity photos are often advance shots of things happening in the future, there's nothing going on in them. They're posed pictures of people doing nothing."

To learn what publicity photos not to send, as well as which ones will get you published see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A picture is worth 1000 words, especially when it comes to newspaper and TV publicity. This step-by-step guide to getting pictures about your business or organization in the newspapers and on TV is designed to help you improve your odds by learning what journalists want and expect.

Some publications use publicity photos more often than others. Large dailies, general interest magazines, and business and trade publications that can afford their own photography staffs generally prefer to cover an event themselves, but many smaller publications and Web sites do accept publicity photos. You have to find out the policies of the publications you'll be working with.

PC Magazine, for example, "... almost invariably takes its own photographs, with the exception of three of our 200 editorial pages each issue. We want to have a consistent look," explains editor Bill Howard, "especially since we primarily do comparative [product] reviews. It would be almost impossible to get 12 publicity photos that would look the same."

To learn more about publicity photos, and how you can get your publicity photos published read David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 01:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

What kinds of things should you remember when doing interviews and contacting the media? One other thing I did want to mention are time frames here. I made a little note to myself to talk about time frames. What kind of time frames do these media have? With radio, their time frame is minutes. You can fax a press release out right now and literally be on the air in five minutes.

With TV, you can also be on the air in five minutes. They won't see you, but they'll do an audio. They'll just have your voice on there. With TV, their time frame can be hours and you're actually "live" on TV. For newspapers, their time frame can be one day. For magazines, their time frame is usually measured in months. They do want the local angle, and they want your opinion on it, and especially if you're an expert in an area. And if you are watching TV, or listening to the radio, by all means, if you hear something that you can respond to, you can follow the formula, whip out a press release literally in ten minutes and say, "This is a response from someone in Denver on this national story. Why don't we do a story on the Denver slant here?" They will love you. For more fantastic tips on how to write great press releases, read How to Write a Killer Press Release That Stops Reporters in Their Tracks
http://101publicrelations.com/killer.html?utm_source=prideas&utm_content=killer_press_releases

Posted by Dan at 07:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Great care should be taken with media conferences that involve alcohol.

Back in the 1970s, the press and booze went hand-in-hand. No one blinked at the three-martini lunch between a reporter and a news source. Reporters sometimes even met their sources at the local bar after work and drank well into the night. Today, such practices have gone the way of the Nehru jacket. And for good reason.

Don't ever feel obligated to serve alcohol at media functions such as news conferences. And if you are being interviewed by a reporter, NEVER EVER drink alcohol, even if the reporter does and offers to pay for your drink. As the old saying goes, "loose lips sink ships." You don't want to let your guard down for one second, particularly in front of a bulldog reporter who can down three double-Scotches, still appear coherent, and fire fast-ball questions at you. You need to stay clear-headed, sober and focused on the interview. You need to remember your key message and deliver it succinctly. You need to be braced for a trick question, and not let yourself get tripped up.

For more rules on appropriate conduct at news conferences, see Special Report #43, "The Do's and Don'ts of Offering Food to the Media"

Posted by Dan at 07:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Should you keep a media database of your top media contacts? Absolutely! . I have two databases. I use the 20,000 database that I told you about. But every time I have an interview, I move that person. They stay in the 20,000 database, but they go into my separate corral of reporters that I've already done interviews with. And in my comments box in the database, I'll write myself a little note. This woman was a great interviewer. She really asked me good questions. This guy was a total jerk. Don't do an interview with him again. This person was wonderful. They followed up. They did this.

Do not, however, ever feel obligated to do an interview. 99.9% of the reporters that you deal with are going to be wonderful people but .1 percent are going to be jerks. Don't do another interview with a jerk. There's no reason for it. You'll gain nothing. I have never, in 25 years, ever called a reporter, unless they were a friend of mine, or wanted a follow-up call, or something else. I do not call because to me, if I call the editor, and I flag them that I'm sending a news release, that flags them to immediately trash it, because I shouldn't have called them. For more fantastic tips on how to write great press releases, read How to Write a Killer Press Release That Stops Reporters in Their Tracks

Posted by Dan at 01:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There are things you should and shouldn't do when trying to get your photos published in print media:
When you approach an editor with a story idea, be ready to suggest photo possibilities!

If you make or sell luxury products, like boats, houses or cars, offer to lend them to photo editors at magazines!
Send your art by first-class mail, messenger, or overnight courier and pack it in sturdy envelopes with stiff cardboard to protect it!

Make sure you have a clear understanding with editors about exclusivity for photos!
Use a professional 35mm (or larger format) camera rather than an instant or Polaroidr camera.

To learn more about submitting photos the right way, and tips for getting photos published see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When working with editorial boards you need to act in such a way that they will respect you and not dislike you.

I think the best thing to do when you're dealing with editorial boards is to be as open and honest with them as you possibly can. Even though they might not agree with you, tell them that you understand that and that you also understand that they have a job to do and you're going to continue to make it as easy as possible for them to work with you. I can promise you, if you tell an editorial board that, they are going to have a great deal of respect for you, even though they might not necessarily agree with your position.

You can find more information like this in How to Use Newspaper and Magazine Editorial Pages.

Posted by Dan at 07:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Your photographs should be sent with sturdy cardboard stiffeners inside the envelope so the art can't be bent in the mail. If you bend a photograph, the surface may crack, and then it can't be reproduced well. Don't skimp on cardboard or postage. After all, you've put a lot of time and money into those shots, and you want them to arrive safely. They should, of course, be sent only by first-class mail, messenger, or overnight courier.

If you are sending digital photographs, use a plastic jewel case inside a diskette mailer to protect the CD-ROM from bending or breaking. Don't be tempted by media mail. The rate is a bargain, but delivery may be slow. Spend the extra money for first class delivery.

If you are submitting photographs to a publication unfamiliar with your organization, be prepared for questions. "Of course we don't accept photos from new organizations until after we have checked them out," says one photo editor. "Otherwise it can get very sticky."

Some small newspapers charge an "engraving" fee when you submit a publicity photo. You should call and ask them about their policies for publicity art. Don't mention the possibility of a fee; wait to see if they bring it up. If the fee is minimal, it will be worth paying because it's probably a great deal less than the cost for the same amount of advertising space.

To learn more about submitting photos the right way see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Do you want more free publicity? Give free classes and demonstrations through adult ed programs, at schools and colleges, or at your own business. Participate in online discussion groups and offer lots of helpful advice. Use a signature file in your e-mail that explains what you do and how you can help solve people's problems. Link to your web site.

Send news releases regularly about new products and services, events, contests, awards, open houses, new employees, promotions, and speaking engagements. Write "how-to" articles for newspapers, magazines, trade publications and newsletters, and offer lots of free advice. It helps establish you as an expert. Get onto the speaking circuit. Speaking to community groups and trade associations is a wonderful way to "create the buzz" about your business or non-profit. For more ideas on how to get free publicity, read Briefs, Fillers and Quizzes: How To Write Them and Why Editors LOVE Them
http://101publicrelations.com/briefs-fillers-quizzes.html?utm_source=prideas&utm_content=briefs_fillers_and_quizzes

Posted by Dan at 07:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

What's the difference between pitching to the print and the radio/TV media? Here's the thing about print. I actually think they're almost a little easier, because you can keep going with them. They have constant, ongoing deadlines. The nice thing about radio producers is there are 10,000 radio shows looking for 4,000 guests. Well, I think that's great news. They always need people who are good with topics and certain things to talk about.

So again, you can keep pitching them. It just has to be at a certain level, even faster, like talking more in sound bytes. The thing I really caution people about in pitching radio and television producers is that from the moment you are speaking to them, it's an audition. For more great ideas on how to get publicity, how to follow up, and how to promote your story, 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

Posted by Dan at 07:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Although many publications will accept photos in electronic format, even in this electronic era, you can't rely completely on electronic photos, for two reasons.

"Posting an image to the Web does not mean that you never have to produce a print again," says C. J. Martin, Aerospace Communications Director at NASA. "What looks good on your desktop monitor may not have enough resolution for a publication to use. Really high quality images mean really huge digital image files. Be prepared to offer a transparency or 8 x 10 glossy" so the publication can get the quality it needs. Otherwise they may not be willing to use your photo, even if it's great art."

Martin also explains the second reason why you'll still need old-fashioned, printed photos. "Many editors still use hard copy prints to screen for what they want to use, and then go to a digital product afterwards." If you don't include photos with your pitch, some editors won't be interested -- even if your publicity material lists links to photos on your web site. They're used to looking at something they can hold in their hands, and they're not comfortable with viewing art on a screen.

Photos are cheap. Publicity is valuable. Send the photos!

For more great tips and advice from the expert on how to get your publicity photos published see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Who cares if in grade school you got made fun of for kissing up, it is a great way to get some free publicity. You have to schmooze the media, but do it right:

Target your "Top 25" media list. These are the publications, radio and TV shows, print and electronic newsletters and other media where you can get the biggest bang. Identifying them will help you target your efforts rather than taking an all-encompassing and time-consuming approach. Follow up with your "Top 25" contacts once a month, either by e-mail, phone, fax or snail-mail, depending on how they want to be contacted.

Create a "Media Group" in your contact manager program. Make note of deadlines, how the reporter wishes to be contacted, types of articles printed, web site URL, etc.

Give reporters news tips about emerging trends in your industry, or the industry in which you are an expert.

For more great publicity tips, and tips on how to get articles written about you and by you in print through schmoozing, see Special Report #21 "67 Clever Publicity Tips for Professional Speakers and Trainers."

Posted by Dan at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There are a number of things to remember when hosting lunches, particularly where payment is concerned.

If you're taking a print reporter to lunch, even if it's at your invitation, always ask how the reporter would like to handle the check. It's usually best if you ask for separate checks and pay your own way. Most reporters hate the media lunch, which combines lunch with a news conference. That's because in addition to ho-hum food, they're usually fed the same story that everyone else gets. Not only that, but many organizations waste the media's time with lunches to announce news that isn't very newsworthy.

Here's another alternative. If you want to meet with reporters and invite them to lunch to pitch a story idea, provide background information or get to know them, ask if they would rather meet in a setting that doesn't involve eating. Some reporters don't like the hassle of having to take notes and flip through items in your media kit at the same time they are trying to juggle a double-decker sandwich with the works.

For more information on paying for lunches and dinners, see see Special Report #43, "The Do's and Don'ts of Offering Food to the Media"

Posted by Dan at 08:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Newspaper photos are going to be different from magazine photos, so before you try and get your photos published, know what the media is looking for.

Your publicity art for newspapers should have strong contrast, since a lot of its sharpness will be lost when it is transferred to newsprint. And since newspaper columns are narrow, your pictures should be shot in a vertical format so they can be reduced to fit one column, if necessary. You can include some horizontal shots as well, in case the editor really likes your art and decides to run a shot across several columns, but the vertical shot is the basic one.

If you're submitting photos to magazines, ask the editors you work with whether they prefer vertical or horizontal shots.

Whether you're submitting them to newspapers or magazines, your photos must have a glossy surface. Photos with matte (textured or rough) surfaces won't reproduce well.

Don't write on the back of a photo. The pressure of your pencil or pen can cause indentations in the surface of the shot that will show up in reproduction. Write or type any necessary information on a label, and then attach it to the back of the art. Never use paper clips on photos because they, too, can cause indentations.

For great ideas and tips on how to take and make your photos exactly what the newspaper or magazine of choice is looking for, and thus more likely to be published, see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A great way to get publicity for yourself as a professional speaker or trainer is to make strategic media allies. The following are some ways to do so:

Syndicated columnists can be found in "Editor & Publisher's Directory of Syndicated Services" which can be purchased for $8.50 by calling 888-612-7095 or by visiting http://www.editorandpublisher.com/store/syndicat.htm
Call local radio and TV talk show hosts and invite them to call on you when other guests cancel. They will be thankful you offered.

Contact your trade association and ask them to refer reporters to you. Many reporters who don't know where to find sources start by calling trade associations.

For more tips on how to make strategic allies, and better publicize yourself as a professional speaker see Special Report #21 "67 Clever Publicity Tips for Professional Speakers and Trainers."

Posted by Dan at 08:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

How can you make sure that a reporter uses your name? Is it even important? 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. It is fair to ask, "Will you be mentioning the product? Will you be giving contact information?" That should give you some kind of clue as to what they actually intend to do.

If they don't intend to do it or they say, "No, we can't really mention your product," well then, it's still publicity and you still use it in your package, because they have used your brand. For more information and tips on follow ups and free 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

Posted by Dan at 01:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

One of the first things to remember is that you can treat print and broadcast reporters very differently. That's because print media outlets often have ethics policies that dictate what reporters can and cannot accept. Broadcast reporters seldom have such policies. If you're hosting a news conference, you don't need to worry about ethics policies. The media aren't concerned either, because everyone is being treated the same. So serving snacks and soft drinks is perfectly acceptable, particularly if reporters will be driving long distances to attend. In fact, a friend of mine who works in TV says TV reporters and many radio folks routinely EXPECT free lunches, gifts of food and other freebies-and are delighted when they get them. Clever PR folks can think of creative ways to tie story pitches to a good gift, and send it to the news department at TV and radio stations, in hopes of being interviewed.

For more do's and don'ts of feeding the media, see Special Report #43, "The Do's and Don'ts of Offering Food to the Media"

Posted by Dan at 01:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

As it can be difficult to get booked to speak as a public speaker, when you do, there are some things you can do to make a lasting impression, and get asked back. For one, offer to help publicize your programs every time you book a speaking engagement. That includes mailing news releases to local media, being available for radio interviews and letting local reporters know about your program, in case they want to attend. Meeting planners will appreciate this thoughtful gesture.

Every time you speak before a group, offer to submit a short summary of your presentation for the group's newsletter. Don't forget to send your photo. It gets you in front of those you just spoke to as well as those who missed you the first time around. Many groups also send their newsletters to the media. Be sure the last paragraph tells people what you do and how to get in touch with you. Include your URL.

For other great ideas on promoting yourself and your product as a public speaker see Special Report #21 “67 Clever Publicity Tips for Professional Speakers and Trainers.”

Posted by Dan at 12:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Whether you’re taking a reporter to lunch at the local coffee shop, or inviting the media to an elaborate press conference complete with tables of gourmet delicacies, feeding the media can be fraught with problems.

• Who picks up the check if you’re taking them to lunch?

• Are gifts of food OK during the holidays, and should they be sent to individual reporters or the entire news department?

• What if you’re hosting a media tour for travel writers at your new resort? Do you automatically assume that if they accept your invitation, you will pay for everything?

• What about alcohol? Can you and a reporter have a beer or mixed drink if you’re being interviewed over lunch at a restaurant?

Be extra careful when dealing with reporters who work for newspapers and magazines, however, particularly those at bigger publications where the ethics policies are more stringent.

Here’s a common-sense guide that will help you put your best foot forward and make everyone feel comfortable: Special Report #43, “The Do’s and Don’ts of Offering Food to the Media”

Posted by Dan at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

After your article is printed, call the editor you worked with and, as a courtesy, ask permission to make reprints. They will almost always agree. Most media don't require written permission to do this because they're too busy. Take the article to a copy center and ask them to make photocopies. Ask your graphics designer to reconfigure the article so it fits onto one side of a sheet of paper. Be sure the nameplate of the publication is at the top of the reprint. Use reprints in your marketing efforts. Tuck them into proposals you submit to clients. If you do public speaking, hand them out to audience members. If you work in a retail business, keep copies on the counter for people to pick up. Frame reprints and hang them on the wall in your lobby. (Note: If you are reprinting articles at Kinko's, first ask Kinko's for a written permission form. Have the publication complete the form and fax it back to you, then take the form with your original copy of the article to Kinko's to be reproduced. They are sticklers about this.)

To learn more on how to keep getting free publicity and how to reuse an recycle the free publicity you already got see Special Report #6 "How to Write "How To" Articles That Position You as an EXPERT"

Posted by Dan at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

When you write an article you should start with a lead. The lead is the beginning of the article. It must pull `em in, but after that it is your job to land them. After the lead, answer the reader's question "Why should I care?" Explain in one or two paragraphs why solving the problem is important. What's in it for them? How much money can they save? What kind of aggravation can they be spared if they do what you say? Always write directly to the reader using the second-person "you" instead of the third-person "he" and "she." It's more personal.

This is also an opportune time to work in a sentence that explains exactly what you do and a little about your expertise. For example: "In my 10 years as a psychotherapist, I have found that many of my clients are as frustrated by the little aggravations of day-to-life as they are by life's bigger problems."

For more tips and advice on how to get the readers attention, and get free publicity, see Special Report #6 "How to Write "How To" Articles That Position You as an EXPERT"
http://101publicrelations.com/sr6.html?utm_source=prideas&utm_content=sr6

Posted by Dan at 08:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Publicity Photos are more likely to get published if they are good, simply said. However, keep in mind that photos need editing, too! Sometimes, by cropping, you can save a piece of art. Ask your camera shop to print 4x5 proofs for you. Then use pieces of plain white paper to blank out parts of the photo that are dull, not relevant, or compete with the photo's focal point. As you move these "cropping sheets," around on a photo, you may suddenly see an ordinary shot take on focus and impact. Once you've decided which parts of the photo you want to crop out, you can use a waterproof marker or a grease pencil to make marks right on the proofs so the film laboratory knows exactly how to print the enlargements. If you're not familiar with the process, ask your camera store for advice.

For great ideas and tips on how to take and make your photos better, more visually appealing, and thus more likely to be published, see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

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

Posted by Dan at 07:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A great way to make more money as a professional speaker, is to not just publicize yourself, but also your products. This will mean higher attendance, as well as higher sales. So how do you do it?

Submit books and products to the new product review section of newspapers, magazines and trade publications.
Rather than trying to get a feature story on your new product, try instead for publicity about the topic. If you can offer advice, background or commentary on a particular topic, the media will be more inclined to cover you and perhaps mention the product.

Consider writing a tips booklet about your area of expertise. Then send the booklet to editors and invite them to excerpt tips. Include ordering information. Visit http://www.tipsbooklets.com.

For more ideas on how to publicize your products and make more money see Special Report #21 "67 Clever Publicity Tips for Professional Speakers and Trainers."

Posted by Dan at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Should you pick up the check when eating with the media?
Tags: paying ethical lunch media invitation hosting

There are a number of things to remember when hosting lunches, particularly where payment is concerned.

If you're taking a print reporter to lunch, even if it's at your invitation, always ask how the reporter would like to handle the check. It's usually best if you ask for separate checks and pay your own way. Most reporters hate the media lunch, which combines lunch with a news conference. That's because in addition to ho-hum food, they're usually fed the same story that everyone else gets. Not only that, but many organizations waste the media's time with lunches to announce news that isn't very newsworthy.

Here's another alternative. If you want to meet with reporters and invite them to lunch to pitch a story idea, provide background information or get to know them, ask if they would rather meet in a setting that doesn't involve eating. Some reporters don't like the hassle of having to take notes and flip through items in your media kit at the same time they are trying to juggle a double-decker sandwich with the works.

For more information on paying for lunches and dinners, see see Special Report #43, "The Do's and Don'ts of Offering Food to the Media"

Posted by Dan at 01:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Don't wait for the media to come to you
Tags: howtoarticles press reporter editors publicity freepublicity publicitytips articles publicityarticles expertwriting

There she is again. Your biggest competitor. Smiling back at you from the inside of a local business magazine. She's doling out free advice on how to do something you wish people would hire YOU to do. It's the third time you've seen an article by her in the last six months. You wish that, just once, the editors would have asked you-instead of her-to write it.

Guess what? The editors probably didn't ask her. Most likely, she was smart enough to write the article herself and offer it to them-for free.

Editors of newspapers, magazines, trade journals, newsletters and even the free weekly "shoppers" are hungry for articles that will inspire, educate, calm, enlighten, humor, and entertain their readers. They want advice that will help people find more time, save money, feel healthier, look thinner, be safer and have better sex lives. And they rely on people like you and your competitor to provide them.

For more expert advice on how to get your articles published, and in turn get free publicity see Special Report #6 "How to Write "How To" Articles That Position You as an EXPERT"

Posted by Dan at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There she is again. Your biggest competitor. Smiling back at you from the inside of a local business magazine. She's doling out free advice on how to do something you wish people would hire YOU to do. It's the third time you've seen an article by her in the last six months. You wish that, just once, the editors would have asked you-instead of her-to write it.

Guess what? The editors probably didn't ask her. Most likely, she was smart enough to write the article herself and offer it to them-for free.

Editors of newspapers, magazines, trade journals, newsletters and even the free weekly "shoppers" are hungry for articles that will inspire, educate, calm, enlighten, humor, and entertain their readers. They want advice that will help people find more time, save money, feel healthier, look thinner, be safer and have better sex lives. And they rely on people like you and your competitor to provide them.

For more expert advice on how to get your articles published, and in turn get free publicity see Special Report #6 "How to Write "How To" Articles That Position You as an EXPERT"

Posted by Dan at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Many publications have rules of thumb that encourage pictures with fewer than five people in them. "The more people there are in a shot, the more difficult it is to compose a good photo," says photographer Andrew Yale. So unless you or your photographer understand how to photograph large groups, avoid them in your publicity shots.
In general, the people in your art must not have their backs to the camera, and they must be identifiable. But if you're taking pictures of people in a confidential situation, such as a clinic or a hospital, it is OK if you can't see their faces.

Choosing an interesting angle can help make your art more compelling. "To the beginning photographer . all 'news' takes place at a distance of six to ten feet from the camera, and is always viewed from shoulder height. Because such photographers always assume the same position in relationship to their subject matter, all their pictures look the same.... To fight such redundancy," Douglis advises, "photographers must seek variety in vantage points.... The key to winning the battle against visual redundancy is to forcefully and emphatically shift camera position."

For specific tips on how to add interest to your photos through photo composition see David R. Yale's "How To Get Publicity Photos In Newspapers, Magazines, And On TV"

Posted by Dan at 07:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If you want to get good publicity out of letters to the editor you need to be aware of how frequently to send the something.

If you're throwing out something every month where it looks like you're almost desperately trying to find something to connect with, editors aren't going to like that, because they're going to tell that this woman's just trying to sell her book, and you don't want that. I think it's very much in terms of the feel of the letter and I think Joan is very much on target about not even mentioning the book. The letter has got to come off as looking like you were struck so much by a particular issue that you wrote a letter. If you want to pull from the book some of the messages and ideas that you have, and as she said, writing "as I've written." or "as I wrote." or something, and then follow that up later on, that's a much better tack because as soon as it gets that sort of scent that "I'm selling something," you're out the door.

You can find more great information like this in How to Use Newspaper and Magazine Editorial Pages.

Posted by Dan at 01:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

While a great fashion tip is to never wear white after labor day, a few great white-paper tips are as follows:
 Be objective, not promotional.

 Use a nice cover with a heavier stock.

 Keep your interviews brief. People don't want you to waste their time.

 Send a news release about the white paper to newspapers, magazines, newsletters, trade publications and online publications.

 Consider posting the white paper at your web site to draw traffic.

 Send copies of the report to people who you interviewed.

 Follow up afterward to make sure they received the report.

 Don't feel it is necessary to name your company in the report. Identify yourself as the author, but don't promote what you are selling.

 Send an e-mail to your existing customers and ask them if they want copies of the report.

To learn more tips for white papers so that they can best be used to your advantage, see Special Report 19, "How to Use Polls, Surveys and White Papers That Brand You as an Expert"

Posted by Rachael at 07:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Don't dismiss the chance to be on television because you think your business isn't "important enough." If you can offer an interesting visual-the Number One most important criteria for TV-you just might be what the TV cameras are looking for. Here are tips on how small businesses can get onto television.

 Piggyback off holidays. A company that cooks and delivers dinners for busy families can pitch a story about their business the week of Thanksgiving, when many people hate to think about cooking anything other than the annual Thanksgiving feast. Invite the TV cameras along. A business that makes fancy, custom-made candies should call TV stations a few days before Valentine's Day. Ask to speak to the assignment editor.
 Offer yourself as the local angle to national stories. If national news outlets, for example, are reporting a sharp increase in the number of home-based businesses-and you're representative of the trend-call the TV station and invite them to your home to shoot film of you at work, as long as it's something more exciting than you sitting at your desk.
For more tips on how to get on TV see Special Report #9, "How to Generate Free Publicity for Your New Business"

Posted by Rachael at 07:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

There are some clever ways to get free publicity for your company, if you know how to do it.
For example you can use polls and surveys: Are you taking a poll or survey, either among your customers or among the public? Homewood Suites, a Texas hotel chain, got great publicity from results of a survey that asked guests what they do in hotel rooms. Almost one in five respondents said they jump on the bed.
Have you thought about sponsoring a clever contest? To celebrate its 100th anniversary, OshKosh B'Gosh launched a six-month nationwide search for the oldest pair of bib overalls. Thrifty Rent-a-Car sponsors an annual Honeymoon Disasters Contest. Entries result in amusing feature stories printed in major newspapers and magazines throughout the country. For additional publicity mileage, the company announces results near Valentine's Day, giving the media a perfect story that piggybacks on a holiday.
For more ideas on how to creatively and effectively find stories for the media within your company or organization see Special Report 5 "How to Identify Story Ideas Within Your Company or Organization"

Posted by Rachael at 08:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

If your book is reviewed in a major publication that refuses to grant reprint rights but, rather, insists that they SELL you the rights for several hundred or several thousand dollars, consider paying for the rights. A story about your book in a national magazine is more powerful than an ad that costs you several thousand dollars. Reprints can be used in dozens of ways: inside your media kit, at trade shows, to keep in touch with clients, to court potential readers, and to send to other non-competing media along with your pitch letter. National publicity provides credibility--almost as if the publication is giving you its stamp of approval.

Getting your book reviewed in Booklist, the flagship review journal of the American Library Association, is a long shot. But definitely worth a try. E-mail editor Bill Ott at bott@ala.org and he will send you information on how to submit books and which editor to submit them to.

For more ideas on getting reviews, see Special Report #40.

Posted by Rachael at 08:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

You can use polls and surveys to subtly promote your product. It is an excellent way to grab a reader without even saying much.

The company that makes Just for Men Haircolor surveyed 505 executives from Fortune 1000 companies and learned that coloring their hair is one of the subtle tricks men use to land a job or work their way up through management ranks in America's top companies. The survey showed that 33% of them believed that men who colored his hair was, "secure enough with himself to enhance his appearance in subtle ways."

The Iams Co., which makes pet food, surveyed its owners and learned that an overwhelming 91 percent of pet owners have said the words "I love you" to their pets. In addition, 63% of respondents sleep with their pets at their sides. The Iams "Good Life" Survey was conducted among 400 callers to the pet care company's customer-service center.

Playing off the love theme, news releases announcing the results were sent to the media just before Valentine's Day. The Iams news release also quoted a company veterinarian as saying "we hear from people who tell us about the important bond they feel with their dog or cat." It also referred people to its toll-free hotline and web site for more information on pet care and nutrition, thus helping create customer loyalty.

To learn more about how you can use polls and surveys to promote your product and to brand yourself as an expert, see Special Report 19, "How to Use Polls, Surveys and White Papers That Brand You as an Expert"

Posted by Rachael at 07:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Fear of public speaking is greater than the fear of dying in a house fire or a plane crash. Yet public speaking is one of the most powerful ways to establish yourself as an expert, get free publicity and sell more of your products and services. Even first-time business owners can get onto the speaking circuit. Choose a compelling topic and give your presentation a catchy title.

Start small. Call program chairs at local groups such as Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, social clubs, or any audiences that want to hear what you have to say. Check your local newspaper for listings of groups that have speakers. Then call the contact number and ask if they are interested in your topic.

To learn more about how public speaking can benefit you, and get you free publicity, see Special Report #9, "How to Generate Free Publicity for Your New Business"

Posted by Rachael at 07:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A great way to get free publicity and media attention is not to be perfect, rather to be imperfect, so go ahead.

TALK ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS

What are the three biggest business problems you are facing? Find out the name of the reporters who covers your industry. Then share the information with them. Who knows? Someone might read your story and call you with a solution you might not otherwise have known about.

TALK ABOUT YOUR MISTAKES

What are the biggest you have made, and how would you advise other people from not making the same ones? Don't be embarrassed. Everyone has made them. And if you're willing to discuss yours, there's a good chance the media will be willing to write about you. The media love to give their audiences lots of free advice-particularly about how not to make mistakes.

To find out more on how to make the most of a bad situation, or turn your bad into publicity good, as well as other ways to find ideas or stories within your company see Special Report 5 "How to Identify Story Ideas Within Your Company or Organization"

Posted by Rachael at 08:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Harley-Davidson celebrated its 95th anniversary with the world's largest motorcycle ride that attracted more than 10,000 bikers. When the classic Ore-Ida Tater Tot Turned 40, it invited fans to call 1-800-9-TATERS to share their stories, poems, jingles, jokes and testimonials for a chance to win the grand prize - a 40-month supply of Ore-Ida Tater Tots.

Hostess Twinkies marked its 65th with a contest for students at film schools across the nation who were challenged to submit short screenplays featuring Twinkies. The winning students, dressed in tuxedoes, arrived at a gala Hollywood awards ceremony in limousines.

There's more to celebrating an anniversary than simply writing a few news releases and giving away free products bearing your company's name. For great ideas on how to make your anniversary news worthy see Special Report #14 "How to Piggyback Story Ideas onto Holidays and Anniversaries"

Posted by Rach