Publicity can be a powerful tool for growing your brand and reaching new audiences. But what’s the most effective way to get media attention? Let’s explore the key strategies for leveraging publicity, based on insights from communications experts and business leaders.
The Celebrity CEO™ Show is hosted by Ramon Ray, The Celebrity CEO™ and guest experts include Lainika Johnson, Press Staffing and Robert Kennedy, communication expert.
Download your free Celebrity CEO™ Personal Branding Blueprint
Check out the show on YouTube and Subscribe | Check out the Podcast and Subscribe
The Power of Press Releases
While some consider press releases outdated, they remain a valuable tool in your publicity arsenal. For around $95, you can distribute a press release that:
- Gets picked up by various news outlets and websites
- Improves your SEO and online visibility
- Creates discoverable content that journalists might find later
- Provides credibility through media logos and coverage
As discussed in The Celebrity CEO Show, press releases shouldn’t be viewed as a direct path to instant fame, but rather as one component of your broader publicity strategy. They’re particularly valuable for their long-tail potential – journalists and media outlets might discover your story months or even years later when researching related topics.
DIY PR vs. Hiring a Firm
The good news is you can successfully handle PR yourself, but it requires dedication and the right approach. Here’s what experts recommend:
If Doing It Yourself:
- Focus on building relationships with media contacts
- Craft compelling pitches that focus on value for their audience
- Be consistent and persistent in your outreach
- Maintain a newsworthy angle in your communications
When to Consider a PR Firm:
- You need immediate access to established media relationships
- You have a significant budget for publicity
- You want to scale your PR efforts quickly
- You need expertise for complex campaigns or crisis management
Effective Pitching Strategies
Whether pitching to journalists, bloggers, or influencers, remember these key points:
- Make it about their audience, not just your business
- Provide clear value and newsworthy angles
- Be concise and specific in your outreach
- Follow up appropriately without being pushy
- Build genuine relationships over time
Media Opportunities Beyond Traditional Press
Don’t limit yourself to traditional media outlets. Consider:
- Industry podcasts
- Online publications
- Local news outlets
- Trade publications
- Social media influencers
- Community forums and groups
Measuring Success
Track your publicity efforts by monitoring:
- Media mentions and coverage
- Website traffic from media placements
- Social media engagement
- Lead generation from publicity
- Long-term brand awareness
The Bottom Line
Publicity can significantly impact your business growth, but it requires a strategic approach. Whether you choose to handle PR yourself or work with professionals, focus on building genuine relationships and providing value to media outlets and their audiences. Remember that successful publicity is often a marathon, not a sprint – consistency and persistence are key to long-term success.
Start small, perhaps with local media or industry publications, and gradually expand your reach as you gain experience and confidence in your publicity efforts. With time and dedication, you can build a strong media presence that supports your business growth objectives.
Would you like me to expand on any of these points or provide more specific examples from the discussion?
