Get Free Publicity: Tips From The Experts
Author: Cathy Stucker

How can you get your story picked up by the media? The best
answers to that question come from the producers, editors and
journalists who decide which stories get coverage. Here are
some of the best tips I have gotten from these experts.

Be familiar with the show/publication. Your pitch should be
about how your story will work for them. Don't do a general
pitch ("A story about dog training.") but suggest the segment
the story would be right for, or what makes it right for them.

Don't take "no" personally. It may be that they have just done
a similar story, or they can't fit it in, or it just isn't
right for them. If you speak with someone, ask if they can
suggest another show or publication where the story might work.


If at first you don't succeed, pitch again. But wait at least a
month or two, and come back with a different angle, not exactly
the same idea that got turned down.

Many now prefer e-mail pitches to fax. It is fast to review,
and can be easily forwarded to several others. Faxes often pile
up unread, but e-mail gets read.

Keep your e-mail short and to the point. DO NOT send any
attachments, as they will be deleted unopened (if they get
through at all). You can include a link to your Web site or
online media kit where more information is available.

When you e-mail, make your subject line enticing. Using "Hi!"
or something else that looks like spam will get it deleted
without being read. Start with QUERY: or PITCH: then give a
short, punchy headline.

One national TV show producer said that you didn't need to send
video with your initial (mail) pitch, another said if you mailed
a pitch with no video you wouldn't be considered. In either
case, you will need a video of other TV appearances before you
get on a national show, so be on the safe side and send it.

Local media are always looking for local experts to interview
on a variety of topics. Send them your bio and credentials and
they will keep you on file for the next time they need an
expert in your field.

Remember that the media do not exist to give you free
publicity. They are there to inform, educate and entertain
their readers, listeners and viewers. Help them do that, and
you will have many publicity opportunities.


About The Author: Copyright Cathy Stucker. Want to know more
about sending press releases? Get advice, resources, and the
custom help you need to get free publicity at
http://www.IdeaLady.com/pr.htm