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Do Your Own PR has gathered together a team of experienced business authorities to bring you their expert tips on getting publicity for and growing your business.
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The Ins and Outs of Contacting Journalists
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So, you've got your media contacts list and press release together and it's looking pretty good.. You've sent it out to eons of journalists and now your palms are sweaty, your throat is hoarse and your heart is pumping. Why? Well it's cold calling time!
Here are my top tips to ensure you maintain your composure, present a professional image and get through your follow up calls as smoothly as possible:
* Never, never leave a message. If you simply leave a voice message everywhere you'll not only waste your time you're in danger of being branded a pest. If a journalist keeps hearing your name on her already over flashing answer phone she'll soon get sick of you so keep quiet, keep persistent and wait until you get through before you start to talk.
* Never give up. Call and call again. If you cannot get through keep trying at different times and on different days. It doesn't matter how long it takes to get through and speak to someone in person. Try different numbers if you have to. Speak to the receptionist find out when the best time to call will be and then call back. Don't give up until you've eventually got through to the person you want to speak to and got some feedback.
* Find out when the publication deadline is and then do not call during that week. Just afterwards is a good time.
* Someone answering the phone may be rude! It's not all sweetness and light! There may be no reason. They're just having a bad day, or tired and stressed out reaching deadline (remember I said DON'T call near deadline) or they may be just having fun with you! Whatever it is do not take it personally and do not be put off. You may be speaking to someone on a job share one of whom loves your idea, the other hates it! So guess what. Find out when the person who loves your idea is on and ONLY call her.
* In PR as in life it is often just when you are about to give up that you are about to make a breakthrough! The Universe is often testing us so that when we think we are setting ourselves up for failure what is actually happening is that our skills of perseverance are being tested. Just when you think that no one's going to bite you can make your 25th call and you'll be exactly what they're looking for!
See you on Breakfast News! by Emily Gordon, www.doyourownpr.com |
| Posted: 10/02/2007 11:57:13
Last Updated: 10/02/2007 11:58:37
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