4 Ways to Get the Media's Attention

Owning a business, it's essential to bridge quality relationships with the publications and stations in your city as often as you can. Whenever possible, let them know you are a dynamic business owner whose in support of the community and enjoys giving it things to do. You can send a message to a decision maker over Linkedin or a business-to-business letter to the outlet. You can invite them to write or cover your pitched “story”, or have a copywriter of your own write a draft to send in for consideration. Here are a few examples of “stories” that make great press releases.

Host an exclusive ticket-only event and send a press pass.

Imagine being a reporter for a city's publication and having a press pass badge sent to you with a seemingly exclusive invitation. That may be hard to pass up! Give them access to the behind-the-scenes of your event, and make sure your team is expecting them. If possible, have one of your members greet them if/when they arrive and give them a small tour of what's going on. Make sure this person also follows up with the reporter and offers “insider” information after the event.

Hold a contest, 5K, or honor a citizen in some way.

These types of events for the public can draw a crowd, an event the local publications and news channel may want to cover. It's always a great idea to have an action photographer for these types of events, in case additional photos are needed for a website, social media, or print content.

Be the first to do something or attempt a world record.

Stir up some healthy competition in your field of business by claiming yourself the first to do something or attempt a world record. You can also use these ideas to improve morale in the workplace, attempting to create these P.R. opportunities together or break from the expected meeting by having a fun brainstorm session.

Partner with a charity.

Piggy-backing the following and established relationships of another organization is always a great business move, and what better an organization than one with a cause. A charitable cause always has a story attached and your reason for choosing one to support is a story of its own! Have fun choosing one to donate proceeds to, sponsor an event, or provide goods to for a long-term commitment, or choose one charity per year to commit your time or support to. This is also an opportunity your team will love to grow together doing. Be sure to show them you value their input by bringing them into the process and asking for their talent for specific tasks.