Let me tell you a story. As many of you know I also run Divine Publicity, where we do PR, as opposed to teaching and training on the subject. And for the past three months I've been contacting this features editor of a well known and high profile magazine. I can't say she's been a delight to talk to, as at times she's been intimidating and always, always gives out "I'm busy" vibes.
But this week she actually called me when she'd finally had time to look and digest the bits and pieces I've been sending her. We're now going ahead with something but the whole process has taken at least three months - and involved me phoning or getting in contact in one way or another at least once a week.
That's very nice you say, but why is she telling me this? For a few reasons actually.
* It shows that perseverance is important.
* Illustrates that however busy or aloof a journalist can sound it is still worth persevering as long as they don't give you an outright no.
* It's a cautionary tale of how long the process can actually take.
But there is a fine line between being persistent and being a pain in the proverbial. So, how can you make sure that you stay on the nice side of the tracks?
* You don't always have to call - just emailing something over as a little reminder can sometimes do the trick.
* Never call or email to check if someone has "received the press release". Argh!
* Whatever you do, always offer something. It could be case studies, an article, an invite to a press event, a freebie or a competition prize.
* Whatever they say try to always end on a bright and breezy note. It's good for your self esteem at the very least.
* Develop a thick skin!
Very Best Wishes,
Paula Gardnerhttp://www.doyourownpr.com/http://www.divinepublicity.comPaula Gardner is a PR and media coach and the author of Get Noticed: How to Boost Your Small Business Profile in 30 days.
For a free weekly newsletter on how to attract new customers and clients and raise your professional credibility and visibility visit:http://www.doyourownpr.com/subscribe.asp
But this week she actually called me when she'd finally had time to look and digest the bits and pieces I've been sending her. We're now going ahead with something but the whole process has taken at least three months - and involved me phoning or getting in contact in one way or another at least once a week.
That's very nice you say, but why is she telling me this? For a few reasons actually.
* It shows that perseverance is important.
* Illustrates that however busy or aloof a journalist can sound it is still worth persevering as long as they don't give you an outright no.
* It's a cautionary tale of how long the process can actually take.
But there is a fine line between being persistent and being a pain in the proverbial. So, how can you make sure that you stay on the nice side of the tracks?
* You don't always have to call - just emailing something over as a little reminder can sometimes do the trick.
* Never call or email to check if someone has "received the press release". Argh!
* Whatever you do, always offer something. It could be case studies, an article, an invite to a press event, a freebie or a competition prize.
* Whatever they say try to always end on a bright and breezy note. It's good for your self esteem at the very least.
* Develop a thick skin!
Very Best Wishes,
Paula Gardnerhttp://www.doyourownpr.com/http://www.divinepublicity.comPaula Gardner is a PR and media coach and the author of Get Noticed: How to Boost Your Small Business Profile in 30 days.
For a free weekly newsletter on how to attract new customers and clients and raise your professional credibility and visibility visit:http://www.doyourownpr.com/subscribe.asp
posted by Paula Gardner at
7:21 AM
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