Publicity Ain’t Free, Just Really Inexpensive

Media relations may be relatively inexpensive, but it’s not free.

So, put an asterisk beside TV reporter Jeff Crilley’s claim that you can get free publicity, reminding yourself that your time has a cost to your company.

That being said, his five tips are worth thinking about. He sent them out when I signed up for his newsletter.

1) Be unusual – The news doesn’t cover what’s normal. We cover the abnormal.

2) Be visual – Reporters tell stories with pictures. If the pictures aren’t there, chances are the reporters won’t be either.

3) Choose the right reporter – Seek out the reporter who will have the most to benefit from your story. Start studying the news. Before you call a TV station or try and pitch the paper, become familiar with a reporter’s work.

4) Write like a reporter – If I were going to send a press release to a reporter, I’d write the kind of headline that a newspaper would run.

5) Wait for a slow news day – Then government offices are closed, so are most of our sources. Take advantage of it.

Media lineup photo by laffy4k

Tags: free, media, promotion, public relations, publicity, tips