Getting your business mentioned in the media without paying for it is hitting the jackpot. A mention of your business in a news report can attract attention and give you more credibility.
When sending a press release, remember to think like a journalist. They don’t care about promoting your business – they just want a good story. So give them one.
- Anniversaries – whether it’s your 1st, 5th or 50th year in business, an anniversary can get you mentioned in the local paper. If you tie your anniversary to an event, like an open house, and invite local celebrities and politicians, you might get even bigger coverage.
- Awards. If you receive an award, send a press release. Haven’t received any recognition lately? Honour an employee for customer service, top sales or community involvement.
- Major achievements. If you land a new client or form a joint venture with another business, send a release. Not only will you gain attention, your client or partner will be happy to see their name in print too.
- Hobbies. If you have the biggest antique toenail clipper collection in Canada, send out a press release. Odds are you can get your business mentioned along with your hobby.
- Make it happen. Your business is boring, your customers are boring and so are you? Then shake things up. Create an event. A clothing store could host an Earth Day fashion show of environmentally friendly clothes. An accountant could host a math Olympics. Be creative, have fun and you will get attention.
If you want to learn more about using press releases to market your business sign up for More Effective Marketing and get a free copy of Getting Publicity for Your Business.
Join me next for the final installment – Volunteering Your Way to Success.
Andrea J. Stenberg
