It's Time for PR Action!

Even if things are still rough with the economy, this is not the time to sit around and get depressed by the latest news. Instead, it’s time to take action. Do you want some free publicity within the next two weeks?

Here’s what you can do right now:

Research. If you don’t already have it, find the name and contact information for a reporter at your local newspaper who covers your industry and the managing editor at a small, niche magazine who may be interested in your expertise. Read what they’ve written and check out what is coming up in future issues in the online editorial-calendar.

Prepare. Figure out the benefits you have to offer both media members – at no cost to them. Can you be an expert resource for future articles? Can you provide an opinion-piece about a recent story? How about an article about a hot, current trend? Make a list and think about what you would want to hear if you were that reporter or editor. Practice your pitch.

Make the Call. Now, call the reporter or editor directly. Introduce yourself, and offer your expertise or an article at no charge. Mention that you saw a recent story and are interested in writing an opinion piece about it. Then, see what happens. Since most local publications are running on tight budgets, they may be more than happy to receive some free content from a local expert.

And if this doesn’t work, write a press release with some valuable information in it (just follow the style of those at www.prweb.com or www.prnewswire.com) and post it on one of the free posting-sites available. (See list here) Boom! Instant publicity you can post on your site. Repeat this process with more media venues, and soon you’ll start building buzz that brings in new customers. Now, that’s worth the effort… Isn’t it?

By Melanie Rembrandt