Sun Microsystems wrote a very interesting article which I am featuring in this blog post.
One common mistake that a start up company could make is putting insufficient trust in the power of the social media and all the great tools online by which the company can attract potential customers.
This article provides a great insight into how to get noticed by the media. There are basically 7 strategies you can use:
- Make your press release stand out but don’t use excessive verbiage.
- Make sure your website gives users tools to research the company. Here is where you want to be very detail-oriented as you never know what kind of information will attract a reporter’s eyes.
- If you scheduled an interview with a media person, always keep it. Respect the reporter’s time and they will respect yours.
- Always provide prep material to press before the meeting, so the writer can be as well prepared as possible.
- During the meeting, make sure the reporter has a chance to get the information he or she needs for the story.
- Always research a reporter to get a feel for their tone. Consult with your PR person on advice before the interview.
- If you notice any discrepancies after the story is published, politely contact that reporter and bring this to his or her attention.
It is very hard to get your start up noticed by the media and that is why it is very important to develop a good, long-lasting relationship with a reporter.
For more information please visit the original article at: http://blogs.sun.com/sun4startups/entry/seven_ways_to_get_your
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Great advice. I work with reporters occasionally and these are great tips. I always send the reporter cover art and bio info on writers before the writers are interviewed. The reporters are always very appreciative.
Thank you, Melissa. It makes me happy to see that you have also come across these issues. It’s always great to share the same experiences.
I think this is good advice and more people should take heed. it is easy to control an interview if you are prepared and research the reporter. Nothing can make a story on a start up go bad – or prevent it from getting into print – like an unprepared person getting stumped on a question.
Thank you, Eric.