Local papers love stories of a local doing good things.
When I decided to reach out to the local press I searched on the Internet for 'newspapers' and put in my zip code. Instantly I had two pages of newspapers, some down the road and others 50 plus miles away.
From that point it was just a case of finding the email addresses or snail mail address and reaching out.
From the emails sent out so far I have only received two responses. One was to say that they didn't think their newspaper was suitable for the story, as I think I was based further away than what they might call local. However, even with these responses it is still important to send a follow up email thanking them for taking the time to read your request and responding. They do not have to and I personally do appreciate the effort even if the result isn't in my favor.
Then there was another response from a much more local publication which involved several emails back and forth with them asking more questions regarding the article. I must at this point say that I did take the trouble to write a general article and sent it to each publication, as a courtesy firstly but mainly because if the article is already written then they may be more inclined to throw it in if they need something quick.
Above is the article from those numerous emails back and forth with the Newspaper. As you can see, it is small and to the point. Important facts are still in there though
1) Title and my name
2) Social Media contact for more information
3) Where to buy the book!
When all said and done all coverage is good and positive and free advertising like this was certainly worth the time and effort. With this I can now follow up on the other companies who didn't respond, once one has published it may encourage others to do so also, and if not, what has been lost?
www.facebook.com/bobbard
No comments:
Post a Comment