August 23, 2010

Designate a Spokesperson.

It is preferable to elect one key staff member to handle press inquiries. Preferably the spokesperson should have experience talking to journalists and be briefed on how to handle possible questions. Make sure all appropriate employees are aware of this person's PR responsibility, so that calls are routed there. This will keep your message consistent and will avoid that person getting caught off guard by over zealous reporters.

August 17, 2010

When a reporter calls. . .

If a reporter calls unexpectedly, it is good to find out what information he/she is looking for, their deadline and then offer to call them back shortly. This allows you time to think through possible questions the reporter may ask to prepare your responses along with thinking about what your top three key messages should be. You'll be more polished and able to offer key sound bytes for possible quotes in their story.

For more PR tips...

www.catapultpr-ir.com/resources/

July 26, 2010

Off the Record?

No such thing. Anything you say to a reporter can be used in their story.  If you have information that is time-sensitive, incomplete, or not yet approved, save it until your company is ready to release it.

July 7, 2010

Localize an Existing Story.

Stay updated on national trends and how they might impact your local community. If there's a story angle that can be localized and you have something compelling and of value to say, consider a quick news release and email pitch to a local reporter. Journalists love trend-driven, time-sensitive and local story angles relating to national trends.

http://www.catapultpr-ir.com/resources/

May 24, 2010

Remember Phone Etiquette.

When calling to pitch a story, always:

• Identify yourself, your company and location.
• Ask if it is a good time to talk before you launch into your full pitch.
• Avoid chit-chat unless the reporter initiates
• Give a brief, direct reason why you are calling
• Pitch the story in 30 seconds or less, instead of just confirming that the reporter received a news release.