Mom Invented

You know you have a great new product and you know that there's a lot to be said about your venture, but you're just not getting the recognition you deserve. Why not? Ann Noder, founder of Pitch Public Relations, says it's time to take a look at your PR efforts and see if you're making one of these 8 big blunders.

1. The Boy Who Cried Wolf: If you create and distribute a press release for every happening at your company, it all becomes noise to the media. Press releases should be reserved for true announcements of value and major milestones of interest. Instead, try engaging a specific reporter, producer or editor with your story idea using a more informal pitch.

2. One Size Fits All: Not every media outlet is the same and they won’t all respond to the identical angle. A business publication is more likely to be interested in your entrepreneurial story or annual growth. A features reporter is more likely to respond to the merits of the product or service. Television outlets want visual elements. You have to play up different aspects of your business depending on the target. Do your research on the person you’re pitching.

3. No Rush: If your story doesn’t have a timely element to it, it’s not really news. By attaching a well-timed angle to the pitch, you increase your chances for coverage. Is it more appropriate now because of the season? Does it relate to a trend or another news story? Is there an urgency to the information? By making the story more relevant, you not only engage the reporter but make it more likely that they’ll jump on it sooner rather than file away for later.

4. Just Wait: Don’t keep a reporter waiting. If they want a photo, get it for them. If they request an interview, make yourself available. Broadcast outlets and newspaper reporters are often on tight deadlines. They need the elements of the story in place, or it won’t run. If they can’t get it in time, they’ll move on to something else.

5. Buy an Ad: With PR, you’re dealing with editorial coverage. That means the content of the copy is up to the reporter. Sure you can help manage the message and direct them to a specific angle. But the story wording and perspective is ultimately up to them. That’s why PR is so valuable. If you want them to use your exact language, buy an ad.

6. You’re Too Insignificant: Don’t underestimate the value of any and all good press. I’ve seen an article in a small community newspaper get picked up by a national syndicate. I’ve seen a local news story lead to national product distribution. I’ve seen blogger write-ups spread like wildfire in social media. National exposure is great. But remember, turning your nose up at a seemingly minor story possibility could mean losing a fabulous PR opportunity.

7. That’s It: Your PR opportunity isn’t over when the story runs. You need to leverage it. For manufacturers of products, that means showcasing the coverage on your site and sharing the exposure with potential retail buyers and stores. Bring the feature to trade shows or investor meetings. You can and should blog, tweet and facebook about it. Make the media coverage meaningful!

8. I’m a Start-Up: Even if you’re just getting started with your business, don’t give the media the impression you’re too Mom-and-Pop. An unpolished website will force magazine editors to take a pass on coverage. If your product sample arrives to a reporter without proper packaging or accompanying information, they won’t take you seriously. Photos need to be sharp and high resolution.

If you’re ready to receive phenomenal media coverage for your product, there are still a couple of slots left in our PR program for March & April. This media opportunity is designed specifically for moms in our community! Submit an inquiry on our Special PR Opportunity page if you’d like more information.

Tagged as: Ann Noder, Pitch Public Relations, PR, PR program, press coverage, public relations, tv coverage