The easiest way to find out what a particular reporter prefers is simply by asking. You can make a phone call and find out for sure what the best method of delivery will be. This also gives you an opportunity to give the person a "heads up" that they will be receiving a press release from you.
This isn't the same as following up (which as mentioned earlier, you shouldn't do), and people won't get annoyed so long as you don't start trying to convince them over the phone that your press release is a "must read."
Stay professional and be confident that if you have followed the steps outlined above, chances are you will get a positive response.
Quick Tip: Should you decide to send your press release in e-mail format, send it directly in the body of the e-mail. Do not send attachments! Many people won't even bother opening them, and some e-mail programs will delete them automatically.
Should you decide that fax. or snail mail is the best choice, make sure that you use a legible font. There is absolutely no need to use fancy, ornate fonts. A clear and easy-to-read lettering will be best.
And if you are mailing your press release, don't fold the paper like it is a letter. Make sure that the first thing the reporter will see is your heading and headline. This will let them know right away what they are dealing with.
Final Thoughts:
If you find yourself tempted to stray from these basic rules for formatting your press release, take a moment to think about the over-tired, over-worked reporter who will be reading it. Their time is limited, their patience is short, and their garbage can is close at hand.
Press releases can be an extremely powerful marketing tool if:
1) You strategically plan your angle so that it's interesting and unique,
2) Your message is short, sweet, and to the point, and
3) Your formatting adheres to industry standards.
If you can successfully combine these three key things, then you'll capture media attention that can easily swing your sales - and public awareness of your business - into high gear.
2006 copyright article. ONLINE MEDIA PRESS RELEASE, media contacts at http://www.media-press-release.com, hosting at http://www.hostcube.co.uk
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