My Jazzercise instructor has already warned us to be braced for packed classes this month. That’s because this is the month when everybody tries to take off what they gained over the holidays. TV stations everywhere want to know about these stories. Here’s an almost guaranteed way to get your company on the local TV… Read More
Publicity Blog
How to promote a Chicago store that sells accessories and products for men
Publicity Hound Kevin Jackson of Chicago, Illiois writes: “I recently opened a men’s specialty store that does NOT focus on clothes. Rather, it’s a lifestyle concept that sells skin and hair care products, accessories (watches, belts, etc.) and home furnishings (bar accessories and the like) designed for men. I think this is a unique concept… Read More
6 ways to improve writing news releases, media kit content
Write like you talk. That’s the easiest way to communicate a message in a clear and compelling way. I harp on this repeatedly to those in my Mentor Program. Yet far too many writers build roadblocks when they write. They use stodgy words and phrases that slow down readers. Here are six writing roadblocks you… Read More
How to find a publicist
It happened again this week. Two Publicity Hounds called and asked for my recommendation for a publicist. They expected me to rattle off a list of my top three choices, including contacting information. As I stated in my ebook “How to Hire the Perfect Publicist,” I rarely if ever do that because I don’t know… Read More
Use Meetup.com in your publicity campaign
If you’re looking for a group with interests similar to yours and near your own community, or you want to target a group of people with a particular interest, consider Meetup.com. Formed in New York three years ago, the group has spawned smaller groups in 1,432 cities worldwide, including more than 1,200 in the United… Read More
Include statistics when pitching a story idea
The next time you’re reading a newspaper or magazine article, notice how many times the reporter mentions statistics high in the story. You should do the same when you pitch. That’s because statistics help validate a story. I found the following statistics in just one section of the Weekend Edition of the Wall Street Journal:… Read More
Pitch ‘best of’ and ‘worst of’ year-end lists
This is the time of year to be pitching year-end lists. Thanks to Publicity Hound Scott Hansen of Carnation, Washington, for alerting us to the “2005 Most Unbelievable Workplace Events” issued by outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas, Inc. They’re designed to make you ask, “What in the world was that company thinking?” The list… Read More
How to promote a book about inexpensive toys that bring out your child’s creativity
Publicity Hound Tim Martin of Corona, California writes: “I am working with Rex Bowlby, the author of the book ‘Why Would I Want the Toy, When I Can Have the Box?…101 Ways to Make the Most of Your Children, Children, with the Least from Your Wallet.’ It provides a treasure chest full of ideas on… Read More
Inflight magazine debuts
If you’re pitching inflight magazines, here’s a new one to add to your list. US Airways is the new magazine that arises from the merger of US Airways and America West. It replaces Attache which ended an 8-year run in November. The Navigator, the new ezine being published by Bacon’s, the media resource guide company,… Read More
Research the media before you pitch
I grumble all the time about media mutts who deliver pitches that have nothing to do whatsoever with the media outlet they’re pitching it to. For a perfect example of what I’m talking about, check out this poorly written pitch I received this week from Travel Features Inc., complete with errors: “Kindly find a 900… Read More