Articles


Why a Compelling Press Release is Your Company's Best Friend

by MArsha Friedman

Chances are that whether you are the owner, manager, or public relations director of a company, you are always looking for ways to be in the public eye. While advertising is important, it doesn't provide the credibility that PR can. Marketing guru and strategist Al Ries says , 'For most companies today, PR is far too important to take a backseat to advertising. In many ways the roles are reversed, PR is in the driver's seat and should lead and direct a marketing program."

A smart way to apply Ries's advice is to secure valuable publicity for your company by appearing as a guest on talk radio. Talk radio is a fantastic vehicle that allows you to speak to sometimes millions of listeners who will be listening in to hear what you have to say! In the enthusiastic words of one of our clients Dr. Cass Ingram, 'Our sales have grown into millions per year from talk radio interviews alone! Consistent talk radio publicity really delivers exposure that is worth its weight in gold."

How about if YOU were getting that sort of exposure during YOUR campaign!

Appearing as a guest on talk radio is a fantastic marketing medium, but if you are not media savvy it is difficult to know where to begin. The first step would be to know how to write a powerful press release for this specific medium. When it comes to press releases most people believe they just can write one, email it to a list of radio stations and sit back and wait for the avalanche of phone calls. But as time passes and no producers are beating down their door, they make a few phone calls to the producers and hosts only to discover that no one even read the release in the first place. So, all of that time and work goes down the drain bringing you back to square one. How to Get Started

The most challenging part of writing anything is getting started. Looking at a blank page with a head full of ideas can be frustrating. Which one do I use? Which one will get the response that I need?

The first step is to understand that you're writing to radio hosts and producers who are inundated with press releases and phone calls every day. They are looking for the hottest show ideas that their listeners will enjoy.

It is your job to come up with a show idea. Is this easier said than done? Well not necessarily easy, but it is your chance to flex those creative muscles. Consider how you would tie your message to a story that is out there in the news, while creating an attention grabbing angle. Don't limit yourself when going through this process. Allow yourself to think outside of the box!

Once you have a show idea it is best to ask yourself the question: Why would an interview choose me? The answer is simple: Radio shows need experts, not unqualified guests sharing opinions.

And, you are an expert! Think about it: who knows your product better than you? You can talk about the problems your product solves with more knowledge and enthusiasm than anyone else out there.

Combined with your expertise on the subject, a terrific show idea that ties your message to the news, will get producers interested in setting up an interview with you!

If you would like to learn more about gaining national media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha Friedman is here to help . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a PR expert Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without costly monthly retainers .

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit http://www.emsincorporated.com.

Published July 1st, 2008

Filed in Business, Marketing