Toolkit

This section gives you the tools you’ll need to contact the media and get publicity. Remember you will not be successful every time so don’t be put off if your first attempt fails. Don't give up.

Sometimes national events will overtake the local news agenda, or a reporter will get pulled off your story to cover something else.

If you only get a listing in the What's On section this time, try and think of a way of making the media do a "follow up" story. If you are not having any success getting your stories in the press ask a journalist why.

It’s also worth remembering that the more you practice writing press releases etc. the easier it will become, so give it a try today!

Before you begin

Plan your media coverage - Don't leave contacting the media until the last minute. Nominate one or two people in your organisation to look after contacting the press when you start planning your event/campaign.

What kind of story have you got? - See section called "What makes a story” and also our suggestions for "Ideas for Stories" ... REVEAL >>>.

Target the media, and use your contacts - Take some time to listen to the radio station or read the newspaper you plan to contact. Who tends to cover stories like yours? Once you have made contact with a journalist/had a story featured, keep sending them press releases and ideas. See also “What the media wants” section.

Steal other people’s ideas - Start a ‘good ideas box’. Keep copies of great print materials, cut out good photos from local papers, list things which other organisations have done successfully to raise their profile.

Are there any pictures? - Are there good quality photos available, or a photo opportunity for the press? Even radio stations have websites these days so they like photos too. Good visuals are central to successful television coverage too so think about a good picture-opportunity if you’re targeting television.

Freebies! - Where appropriate, offer tickets to your event as a prize for listeners/readers. This is a good way to get extra publicity for your event.

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