Let’ s face it, getting media coverage for your event can be  a powerful boost to build your brand visibility. However, journalists are receiving invites to events all over the city, follow these tips to ensure yours stands out from the crowd!

Develop a plan

Being strategic with your approach allows you the opportunity to really think about how to succeed with media presence. Explore ways to make noise about the event so that the media can witness the buzz and get excited about attending an event that everyone is already talking about. Creating a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) can be strangely beneficial (apparently, we all want to be where we think everyone else wants to be!) and gaining access to a highly anticipated event, a real privilege.

Do your research

Before sending any press invites, make sure you know who you are talking to. Be clear about your target audience as well as theirs. Who do they write for, who are their readers and what content have they recently published? Find the common thread and be confident with your approach.

Be clear when you pitch

Be transparent, get to the point quickly. Don’t hide your messaging and purpose for the event with redundant, unnecessary wording. Keep it succinct and explain the concept of your event clearly to manage expectations. You will need to convey who, what, where, when and why in your communication.

Avoid sending attachments

Quick glance, easy-to-read visuals will capture the attention of recipients, as opposed to email attachments. Having to click and download a press release, invitation or graphic just adds another step that gets in the way of deciding whether or not they will attend your event. Make it easy for them and grab their attention as soon as they open your email. If you want to be super efficient, add a calendar invite as well.

Arrange onsite interviews

Offer media interview opportunities with spokespeople and special guests at the event. It is important to select people who are comfortable on camera and able to articulate your message clearly. You can also pitch different perspectives for specific reporters as well. If you have a high profile speaker or special guest attending, use this to your advantage.

Follow up!

Always be sure to follow up with media that did decide to attend. Getting back in touch with timely communication will provide you with clear expectations of when to expect any post event write ups, photos etc. It’s also another reason to nurture a new relationship which will be helpful for your next event!

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