Since the late 1990's, I've been getting media coverage, feature articles, quotes and write-ups in top media outlets. Around the world.
I've honestly lost count. Hundreds? Thousands? I'm not really sure. I don't say this to brag but to let you know that if I can do it, ANYONE can do it.
At first, it wasn't so easy. Often, my phone calls to reporters went unanswered, my emails unreplied to. I honestly didn't know what I was doing. But, after A LOT of trial and error, I figured out a handful of formulas that worked almost "on demand." I wish I had a mentor to teach me all these tricks and save me many years of aggravation, lost time and money (and scant results), but it was just me. I had to figure it all out on my
own.
Anyway, now, I pretty much plug in one of my formulas and wait for the writers to jump and chase after me for an interview (which they usually do).
Case in point:
On June 28th, I sent a reporter from Reuters an email about one of her articles (I think the article was a few years old). Exactly TWO DAYS LATER (June 30th), she sent me an email asking me to comment about a particular news story because she wanted to quote me in an article she was working on.
So how did I do it?
The "Bait and Pitch" Strategy
This strategy involves "baiting" an email with a question and then seeing if the reporter would bite. When they do, I then make a soft pitch about who I am and my availability to provide quotes if they ever need it.
STEPS:
1. Email a reporter (local or even national) who has written an article in your niche and area of expertise. Compliment the reporter about something SPECIFIC in the article that you liked.
2. In the same email above, ask the reporter a question that demonstrates you actually read the article and genuinely want more information.
3. Wait for a reply.
4. If you have followed the steps properly, there is a 80-90% chance you will get a reply to your email. If you don't get a reply, try the process with another reporter. Chances are, there are plenty to choose from.
5. If you DO hear back from the reporter, thank them for responding and tell them you appreciate their time. ALSO, give them a very brief summary of who you are, any impressive things you've done/qualifications you have, and that you would be eager to serve as a reference or source for any future article.
6. Give them your contact information (preferably cell number and direct email).
7. Sit back and hopefully get contacted. If they reply, you'll probably hear back from them by email (unless they call and want to do a phone interview). VERY IMPORTANT: You want to be highly responsive and reply to emails or phone calls pronto.
And that's it!
I know it doesn't sound very elaborate but there's a method to this process. And there's a reason why it works so well. Maybe I'll break down the reasoning behind everything in another email. Suffice it to say, I'm proof it works.
Looking for One-on-One
Media & Marketing Coaching With Me?
If you are interested in learning all my free publicity and marketing secrets and would like me to PERSONALLLY coach you, email me at: copticchamber@gmail.com and we can discuss it. It can literally transform your entire business.
Whether we work together or not, I hope you at least give the Bait & Pitch strategy a shot. A quote or feature in an article can give your business a tremendous boost.
Until next time...
And, remember, K.I.C. (Keep It Coptic).
