How to get your business in newspapers, magazines, radio and TV

• Angela De Souza (Women's Business Club)
• Friday 7 October 2016

How to get your business in newspapers, magazines, radio and TV

It's easy when you know how but many business owners simply don't know how. The media are interested in a story, a good story that will sell their publication or show. If you pitch it right then why wouldn't they want to feature your business. The first step before even sending out a press release is to get known.

Introduce yourself to the media

Journalists like to know who they can rely upon for comment or interview at a moment's notice. News is fast paced and everyone is scurrying to be the first on the scene or to have the latest scoop. Before a journalist goes searching for who they can quote or interview they will take a look at their existing contacts. Getting your name on that list is essential so take the time to introduce yourself and your area of expertise.

Introduction

A simply email or phone call will suffice. Don't waste their time by waffling on about everything under the sun but simply get in touch, stage your name and business name, mention that you want to introduce yourself and make yourself available should they require someone in your area of expertise. Briefly share what you do and end off with your email address, phone number, website and social media sites.

Availability

Make it easy for a journalist to access you. Store their number on your phone so if you see them calling you take their call. If you don't they will just move onto the next person. If you see an email from them read it and reply right away. When they call asking if you can come in for an interview say yes and then rearrange your diary after you have put the phone down. If you become known as a reliable source they will call on you again and again.

Follow up

Don't expect a journalist to chase you. If you are asked for something then provide it. When you say you will send an article over send it in. You are unlikely to hear back as to whether it was received or even used. So follow up with a quick email or phone call to see if it has been received and if it will be used asked when. You will seldom be told when a piece goes into the paper or on radio or TV, you have to be following them to find out or ask and you will be told. Like I said, no journalist has the time to chase you for information or to tell you that they have used your piece.

Read more about creating hooks that reel the journalists in at www.womensbusiness.club/get-business-in-newspapers-magazines-radio-tv

October is Media Links month at the Women's Business Club and we are dedicating the entire month to learning about how to connect with local and national media. Find out more at www.media.womensbusiness.club and get involved in our Business Lunches or VIP Clubs Find a dates and locations at www.calendar.womensbusiness.club

www.womensbusiness.club/get-business-in-newspapers-magazines-radio-tv

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