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This series of articles focus on how to make yourself known as an expert. Today we will focus on how to gain media attention.
Dale Carnegie said in his famous book – How to Win Friends and Influence People, “Babies cry and grown men die.” We all want attention and recognition. We seek media attention so that our name appears in newspapers, radio and television. Not only is it something we personally want, but it’s also a great strategy for gaining expert status and getting clients.
I have been written about in print, interviewed on radio and television. Did you know that an appearance on television can catapult you to fame and launch your career into the stratosphere? Fawn Germer, who I recently heard from, was featured on Oprah. She has made the most of it. We all know what can happen if you are seen on The Oprah Show. The companies become hugely successful and a million books are sold! Dr. Phil and Dr. OZ got their start as guests on The Oprah Show. Now they have their own shows.
So how do you get media attention?
Here are 5 simple strategies:
- Find an angle that appeals to the media: It’s pretty easy to find out what current stories are already being covered in the media. Just find an angle to hold on to the story. It is not enough to say that you are a chiropractor or massage therapist. What is new, unique or newsworthy about your profession?
- Prepare your story: Once you know the angle, create a tone that is easy for you to communicate. Human interest stories are featured all the time. Choose a struggle and how you or a client got through that struggle.
- Get a list of reporters: Today it is easier to find reporters on the Internet. Social media has made reporters and journalists much more accessible. Choose the target market you want to focus on and find the reporters who cover such stories.
- Call or email them: Depending on the information you have and how timely it is, you can pick up the phone and call the reporter. Make sure you know the simple protocols. Television, radio, and print media have different strategies for collecting and sharing information. Pay attention to when and how you should approach the media.
- Build a relationship: I am constantly writing comments to reporters. You will be surprised how many of them will respond to you. Get used to communicating with them so that they recognize you. Today, media outlets are required to build a following and stay in touch with their audience.
These simple and effective strategies will help you get started on becoming a media star.