When I started my career in public relations, I did everything wrong. I copied-and-pasted press releases into e-mails, which I blasted out to journalists. I didn’t take the time to read, watch or listen to the media I was reaching out to.
Take it from me, you don’t want to do these things!
Instead, take advantage of my decade of experience (and annoying habit of asking my mentors lots of questions) and start pitching like a pro.
HOW TO READ A MAGAZINE LIKE A PUBLICIST
Over time, I’ve become convinced that the number one skill that separates a successful PR pro from an amateur is reading magazines. The way I go about it is very different than how you (likely) do it. In this edition of the PR primer, I walk you through it, step-by-step.
ARE YOU GUILTY OF THE SPRAY AND PRAY?
You had a killer story to tell, and you wanted to use the media to deliver it to more people. So you sent a press release to various newspapers and magazines using whatever e-mail address you can find. Tell me, did it work? It’s okay. You’re not alone. You can fess up.
HOW TO TRACK DOWN A REPORTER’S E-MAIL ADDRESS
What if I told you the most effective method for tracking down a journalist’s contact information also happens to be free? You don’t need to buy a list, hire a publicist or subscribe to a database. Scout’s honor.
Are you wondering just what format your pitch should take? Do you need a press kit, to make a phone call or simply to write an e-mail? In this edition of the PR Primer, I not only tell you what format your pitch should take, but I also break down the specific components.
SHOULD YOU USE A WIRE SERVICE?
PR wire services (those services that send your press release to their list for a small fee) can seem like an inexpensive and easy way to get the message out about your next big project. Once you use them, you’re dazzled by reports of thousands upon thousands of impressions. So why don’t I recommend them?
