9 tips on using the power of PR
Plan ahead. Sit down and write a PR plan, working out what you are going to do and when. One of the benefits is that it will allow you to schedule the long ‘lead time’ (notice) that some media require in order to feature news.
Write a press release. When you have some news to impart, it takes a lot to beat a punchy, well-written press release. Don’t forget to sent it to VisitBritain too!
Be prepared to host a journalist free of charge – but don’t give him/her special treatment as the media wants to sample your ‘product’ as it really is. Tell VisitBritain you are prepared to offer this facility.
Think superlatives. In the competitive media industry, journalists want to tell their readers about places, people and events that are really special. Don’t promote yourself until you are confident your product is up to scratch. Preferably with a unique selling point or USP.
Think out-of-the-ordinary. The media is more likely to give you coverage if you have something quirky or unusual to announce.
Prepare a press pack. Then you have everything ready to offer the media promptly if they request it. Don’t forget to include some hi-res images on CD.
Collaborate with people in the same line of business or locality. This way you could provide a stronger ‘story’ to the media.
Nominate a PR representative. Someone who is available to answer media enquiries and be a first point of contact. Put the details on all your releases and other PR correspondence.
Make use of our publicity opportunities. Search for them using the opportunity search. Click the ‘free’ button and it won’t even cost you!