Rules to Getting Media Coverage

Real Talk: Dr. Pam Perry’s Unfiltered Take on PR & Media

We all dream of hitting those home runs right out of the park, but let’s get real—it’s time to “batter up” and play the game right. The media world is fiercely competitive, and they’re looking for those who already have a solid platform. Think of it as climbing a ladder to success, one rung at a time. No one becomes an overnight sensation. It takes time, effort, and consistency. Just ask any celebrity; their success took years. So, stay patient, stay prayerful, and follow these rules!

Rules to Get Media Coverage:

1. Start Small, Think Big

We don’t aim for big media hits before we’ve secured the smaller ones. If landing a feature in Ebony, Essence, or on Tamron Hall and Roland Martin were easy, everyone would be doing it. It’s a gradual build—steady and sure. The key is consistency and gratitude for any and every media hit you get. Begin with local media, then move to regional, and eventually national outlets. Consistency with your local media is crucial. Reach your key audiences first and build your media presence steadily. Remember, media begets media!

Repurpose your media hits —if you’re featured on local Fox2, clip it, put it on YouTube, email it out, and post it on your blog. If you had an article in Black Enterprise, send it to your list again and post it on your blog with the BE masthead. Make a video with it! Post on IG or TikTok. Be creative and strategic!

2. Be Visible Online

To get noticed by the media, you must be noticed by search engines. Build a following or fan base. Have a professional website and, after our call yesterday, everyone should have a blog, right? That’s PR 2.0! (To listen to my podcast shows here )

3. Know Your Audience

You must have a platform, clear speaking topics , and ensure your book matches the media audience. Do your homework—study the media, read the media, and respond to articles via letters to the editor. Call into talk shows and voice your expert opinion. How can you expect to be on a national show if you’ve never engaged with local radio stations?

4. Perfect Your Look

Always put your best foot forward. Brand yourself impeccably . Never let anything out into the internet world that isn’t your absolute best—be it words, photos, or videos. Remember, search engines pick up everything, even tweets.

5. Prepare Your Press Kit

Be ready when the media calls. Have your bio, fact sheets, and interview questions lined up. Be over-prepared. When they ask if you have a bio, fact sheet, release, book synopsis, or interview questions, you can confidently say “YES.” This preparedness will make you a media darling. Remember, those who show up, go up!

Quick Media Coverage Tips

If you’re looking for quick media coverage, here are some fast-track strategies to get noticed:

1. Utilize HARO (Help A Reporter Out): Sign up for HARO to get daily queries from journalists looking for sources. Respond quickly with relevant and concise information.
2. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Twitter to follow journalists and engage with them. Share your expertise and comment on trending topics in your field.
3. Create Newsworthy Content: Write press releases about your latest achievements, events, or unique insights. Distribute them through PR distribution services like EIN or PR Newswire.
4. Network with Local Media: Attend local media events, press conferences, and networking events. Building relationships with local journalists can lead to quicker coverage.
5. Pitch Seasonal Stories: Tie your expertise to current events, holidays, or seasonal trends. Journalists are often looking for timely angles to cover.
6. Offer Expert Commentary: Position yourself as an expert willing to provide commentary on relevant news stories. Reach out to news station s and offer your insights on breaking news.

For more tips and insights, visit my podcast. Let’s get out there and get known! By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to building a strong media presence and achieving the recognition you deserve.

Keep climbing, stay consistent, and shine brightly! Here’s how we do it: go here

Ready to get out there? Your Call to Action…

Want to get featured in the media? Visit Quick Media Coverage or check out Speakers Magazine .

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For further insights and guidance on building your media presence, check out my resources and join our community at ReadySetGoSpeak.com .? Let’s make your brand shine!