PR Tips of the Trade

Details, details, details

For every phone briefing, call and email the reporter and company executive prior to the call to ensure that they remember the event details and have all the necessary information, e.g., dial-in numbers, PowerPoint, etc.   You'd be surprised how many times they (each) forget!

In the World of PR, the future is NOW. . .

If you have a special event or product launch happening three or even six months down the road, now is the time to start planning your PR strategy. Many trade publications are monthlies and can have lead times of anywhere from 60-120 days, so it's important to start laying the groundwork early. Make sure everyone involved in the project is aware of the deadlines and stays current on where things stand. Communication and proper planning will enable you to devise the best and most effective strategy that takes advantage of all potential news media outlets and coverage opportunities.

How to do work with your PR firm during Company/Product Launches

The success of PR launches is largely a two-way street. Company spokespersons need to make time for media interviews prior to the announcements. PR launches often are stymied by inaccessible company spokespeople during the most critical weeks for phone or face-to-face interviews.  Spokespersons who make these appointments a top priority enable their PR firm to set up more interviews with very tight, often inflexible media/analyst schedules.  Once an interview is scheduled, try not to reschedule it. It's often difficult for media/analysts to rework their schedules to accommodate new dates and times.  Some reporters will just cancel the meeting all together.