1. You are a bother
If you call a reporter and simply ask, “Did you get my press release?” right after distributing it, they may hate you. Yes, they got the press release, and 10 others prior to it. If you don’t have real value to add beyond asking whether they got the press release, you’re being a bother. They need to write articles, not take your calls!
2. You criticize their stories
If you criticize a reporter after reading his or her article, you’re not making a positive impression. Instead, compliment them on what you liked about their story and suggest a possible follow-up with new information.
3. You promise a reporter an exclusive interview and then talk to others, too
Reporters are competitive and value “scoops.” If you’ve granted an exclusive interview to a reporter on a particular topic, and then share that information immediately with other reporters, you’re getting on the “most hated” list.
4. You make a reporter wait
If you run late, put a reporter on hold in the middle of an interview, or stop to greet passers-by during an in-person interview, you may make the reporter feel unimportant.
5. You only can comment on your specific product or service
If all you can talk about is your widget, and nothing but your widget, then you’re a very limited source to reporters.
6. You don’t tailor your message to the reporter’s focus of interest
If you talk to a reporter who writes columns for the general public and then speak endlessly about technical matters of no interest to their readership, you’ve wasted the reporter’s time.
If you want great exposure in the press, don’t be shy about getting help from a public relations agency. From writing a compelling press release that gets published, to securing interviews with reporters, we can help. Find out how easy it can be. Reach out to us at Inquiries@StrategicVantage.com.
By Rosalie Berg, President, Strategic Vantage