14 Publicity Tips You Can’t Live Without

Publicity is the lifeblood of any successful business, personal brand, or cause. The right publicity can elevate your profile, bring in new clients, and even change public perception. But how do you get that publicity?

The list of potential strategies is endless, but here are 14 key tips that stand out as essential for a winning publicity campaign. These tips are easy to implement and can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by the media.

Let’s explore into the Magic 14.

Establish a Consistent Look
Submit Anything To Start Off With
Keep On Submitting
Watch The News
Keep Up On The Trades
Piggyback Your Cause
Be A Character
Network In All The Right Places
Remember Names
Be 100% Reliable
Be A Source Of Referrals
Follow Up On Stories
Stay In Charge Of The Interview
Don’t Be Afraid To Create News

1. Establish a Consistent Look

Consistency is key when it comes to branding, and this extends to your media presence. Make sure your press releases, media kits, and any other materials have a unified look and feel.

Editors are more likely to pull and prioritize your story if they recognize your name and associate it with quality content. Over time, a consistent look will help you build a recognizable brand identity that stands out in the crowded media landscape.

2. Submit Anything To Start Off With

The first step in getting publicity is simply getting your name on file. Don’t worry too much about whether your first submission is groundbreaking. The goal is to get your foot in the door. Once your name is in the editor’s database, you’ve established a foundation for future interactions.

Even if your initial story doesn’t make it to print, you’ve made the first contact, which is invaluable when you have something bigger to share.

3. Keep On Submitting

Persistence is essential in the world of publicity. Don’t just submit once and disappear. Make it a habit to submit stories regularly. Editors need to see your name pop up frequently, not just a couple of times a year.

Regular submissions increase the likelihood that your name will be recognized and associated with valuable content. Over time, you’ll become a trusted source that editors turn to for stories in your niche.

4. Watch The News

Stay informed about current events, both locally and globally. By tying your story to a trending news topic, you position yourself as an authority on the subject. This makes your press release more relevant and timely, increasing the chances of it being picked up.

When an editor is looking for expert commentary on breaking news, you’ll be at the top of their list if you’ve already established yourself as a knowledgeable source.

5. Keep Up On The Trades

Understanding the latest trends in your industry is crucial for staying relevant. Being well-versed in the developments within your field allows you to speak knowledgeably when called upon by the media.

This not only helps you during interviews but also ensures that your press releases are aligned with what’s currently happening in your industry, making them more attractive to editors.

6. Piggyback Your Cause

Find ways to align your cause or business with community events. Offering your services at these events can be a great way to get noticed by the media. If you become known as someone who consistently delivers engaging interviews, media personalities will seek you out.

By piggybacking on events, you gain exposure and increase your chances of being featured in local news coverage.

7. Be A Character

Personality goes a long way in publicity. Don’t be afraid to show some character during interviews. Study successful talk show hosts and notice how they keep their audience engaged. While you don’t need to be outrageous, being a lively, fun, and knowledgeable expert will make you a more appealing subject for interviews.

Remember, the more interesting and engaging you are, the more likely the media will want to feature you.

8. Network In All The Right Places

Networking is a powerful tool for gaining publicity. Attend events where the press is likely to be present, such as gala balls, fundraising banquets, and other high-profile gatherings. Make a point of introducing yourself to media professionals and striking up conversations.

The more you put yourself in situations where the press can notice you, the higher the likelihood that you’ll be featured in their stories.

9. Remember Names

A personal touch can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived by the media. People love hearing their names, and reporters are no different. Carry a small notebook to jot down the names and details of every media person you meet.

This will help you remember who they are when you run into them again, making it easier to build and maintain relationships that can lead to future publicity opportunities.

10. Be 100% Reliable

Reliability is crucial when dealing with the media. Reporters have tight deadlines, and nothing frustrates them more than someone who cancels, postpones, or doesn’t show up for an interview. Establish a reputation for being a reliable interviewee who can be counted on to show up and deliver, even on short notice.

When reporters know they can depend on you, they’re more likely to call you first when they need a quote or an expert opinion.

11. Be A Source Of Referrals

When a reporter asks for additional contacts in your field, don’t hesitate to provide them. There are several benefits to this: first, the people you refer will appreciate the opportunity, which strengthens your network. Second, the reporter will see you as a valuable resource.

And third, most of the people you refer won’t be as media-savvy as you, so they’re unlikely to pose a competitive threat. In fact, this can increase your credibility as the go-to expert in your field.

12. Follow Up On Stories

Always send a thank-you note after an interview or story is published. This simple gesture can go a long way in building positive relationships with media outlets. With a bit of creativity, you can even use the follow-up as an opportunity to secure more coverage.

For example, one singer sent flowers to a PBS station after an interview, thanking them and wishing them success with their upcoming fund drive. Her thoughtful gesture led to additional coverage as the station continued to mention her throughout the day.

13. Stay In Charge Of The Interview

During interviews, it’s important to stay in control of the conversation. While it’s necessary to answer the interviewer’s questions, don’t let them steer the discussion into less interesting or off-topic areas.

You are the authority on the subject, so guide the conversation toward the most compelling and relevant points. A well-managed interview will reflect positively on you and ensure that your key messages are communicated effectively.

14. Don’t Be Afraid To Create News

Sometimes, the best way to get publicity is to create your own news. This could be through writing a book, conducting a survey, or launching a research project. These activities not only elevate your status as an expert but also provide fresh, interesting angles that the media is likely to cover. By continually generating newsworthy content, you keep yourself relevant and at the forefront of your industry.

Conclusion

Publicity is not just about getting your name out there; it’s about building and maintaining relationships with the media, presenting yourself as a reliable expert, and continuously creating opportunities for coverage.

By following these 14 tips, you’ll significantly increase your chances of being noticed by the press and getting the publicity you need to succeed. Remember, the media is always looking for a good story—make sure yours is the one they choose to tell.

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