Most startups have two main things in common; They are usually short on cash for expansion and they are also hard pressed on time to catch up with established competitors.
Many entrepreneurs with a new business often fight hard and use all sorts of tricks with an aim of catching the attention of journalists and getting media coverage.
Most startup owners understand that the longer it takes to put their services out to prospective customers, the longer it will take to build profitability. Media coverage is a sure way to gain the desired exposure but many startups do not know how to get the much needed publicity.
Below, the discussion will feature 5 sure hacks on how your startup can attract the attention of journalists and media platforms hence providing the coverage you may need to grow your business within a short period of time.
- Consider creating a short summary that details why your business is unique and why you are better than competing companies.
Where possible, you should avoid releasing a standard press release as a startup owner.
Many startups usually make the mistake of creating a standard press release and sending it to multiple media stations with the hope that the release will provide the requisite publicity.
Instead of a standard release, why not walk away from the beaten path and instead send out an exclusive story to the media containing unique news-worthy hooks?
Ideally, you should write down a release containing unique details about your business and then pitch the release to a local journal, daily paper or TV station. For example, you can send out this type of release before your enterprise actually opens for business.
Keep in mind that journalists like exciting stories and they are always looking for a unique business they can write about. To pique their interest, you can write a short summary about your startup complete with a catchy headline.
After a few stations have introduced your business to the world, you can always follow up with a standard press release to other stations.
- Create a short and enticing video for social media platforms
In today’s highly digitized world, video is an essential marketing tool.
A short video about your enterprise can get people discussing your startup and also make things personal between the staff and prospective customers.
Additionally, keep in mind that most people today would rather watch a video instead of reading.
A video will allow you to say much more than printed words.
For added PR value, you can even link the video to press releases.
- Ensure you make the most of any media coverage you get by boosting profiles on your startup on your website as well as social media platforms
Ensure that you keep circulating information on your startup by linking stories across multiple social media platforms.
You can integrate, video, print and other information about your business on digital platforms for better SEO.
- Consider hosting a special event
Holding an event can invigorate and boost the morale of the entire team working for your startup, not to mention that it can provide a lot of publicity on the media.
When creating a special event for your startup, you should exercise a lot of creativity. For example, if you are a tech firm, you can do something related to the gadgets you offer. You can also do something unique such as making the biggest burger in the world or hold a special sale to benefit a local charity. Ideally, the event should be visual and interesting.
If you want to attract the local media, you have to do something unique, interesting and newsworthy.
- Consider supporting a charitable cause
Having a program that benefits the community can be a huge publicity and PR coup for your business. If your startup is doing something to benefit the local community, you are highly likely to attract the attention of the local media.
Remember that media producers like to highlight creative ideas designed to benefit the community. For example, you can liaise with non-profit organizations and start a program to bring your young kid or pet to work. With something that attracts media attention, you will get the publicity you are seeking.
Remember that to build credibility for any future release your startup may give, you will need to have extensive relationships with media personnel and great coverage.
