by Inventures
July 11, 2023
Media relations can play a pivotal role in shaping the success and reputation of an organization. Effective media relations not only enable organizations to reach a wider audience but also provide opportunities to disseminate their key messages, establish thought leadership, and enhance their brand image. Inventures, a Smithbucklin-owned company, understands that leveraging media relations can be a powerful tool for an organization. Here are five tips on how to get started and how to work with reporters.
Start with a Goal in Mind
Know what you want the reporter to do before you send the email or pick up the phone.
Do Your Homework
Preparation is the key to success when pitching reporters. Research the reporter and what the reporter writes. Research the publication and read it regularly. Know your product, solution, or news well and why that would be important to the publication and the reporter.
Think Like a Reporter
Ask yourself these questions: Is this a good story? How does this relate to the publication and the reporter's interest? Is it worth their time? Do I have all the information I need to sell this story?
Prepare and Keep It Simple
Reporters often receive hundreds of pitches a day and have short attention spans, so the best approach is to keep it simple (whether writing an email or speaking to them). Start off by giving them a brief, one-sentence qualifier on what you want to speak with them about and why this is important.
Be a Resource
Finally, if you were unable to sell the story successfully, don’t give up. Continue to foster the relationship with the reporter and get to know them. Keep the door open and be a resource to them for future news.
If you are interested in learning more about Inventures, contact Stan Moyer.