How can you tell if your news release is fit for print? One of the simplest –and least costly- ways to get media attention, writing a news release that passes the discerning eye of most journalists is no easy feat. The problem is leading to a staggering loss of media exposure for small business owners and entrepreneurs who can’t afford to hire expensive PR firms to handle their publicity.
But according to one marketing consultant, there is a method to reliably and consistently pen news releases that pique the interest of even the most hard-boiled reporter. “The old fashioned dull-as-dishwater media release is dead,” says Helen Graves, an online marketing strategist and author of Toss the Rules Out the Window: 12 Actions to Break the Marketing Mold and Create Success YOUR Way!
Graves (who bills herself as the Grand Poohbah of Crackerjack Marketing & Online Strategy) says the key is writing a release that goes beyond the humdrum and demands attention. “I know it sounds obvious, but most people aren’t doing it that way.”
She adds that many independent business owners fall prey to seeing the press release as an opportunity to pitch their products or services. Graves cautions that nothing will bore a journalist –or potential client- faster than an obvious sales pitch. “It’s crucial to give the reader a story, not an advertisement. The trick is to learn how to sort the hype from the human interest.”
Helen Graves has a free screening inventory to find out if a release is “fit to print,” located online at http://www.CrackerjackOnlineMarketing.com/
The press release inventory checklist is part of the curriculum in a new online seminar, “How to Create Effective Press Releases – Even If You’re Not a Writer,” developed by Graves for independent entrepreneurs and small business owners. More information about the seminar may be found at http://www.snipurl.com/
“Armed with a little knowledge, small business owners can get their fair share of media exposure without spending a fortune,” says Graves.
Helen Graves
Crackerjack Online Marketing
(520) 326-8595 P
(251) 217-0141 F
www.CrackerjackOnlineMarketing.com
