3 tips on how to maintain awesome relationships with the Media

Public Relations Pros have a big and important relationship with the Media, and vice versa. They need each other like the summer needs sun. And that’s why it is important to be aware that nurturing this relationship needs effort, almost like romantic ones.

Since we are now living in a challenging (rough, awful, horrible, or any other beautiful words that we can think about) era, it is crucial to know how to handle these relationships in a post-pandemic — we hope — phase. So, here are three tips on how to strengthen Media relations, according to the Business Wire Report “How to Nurture Media Relationships.”

Work on your relationship with journalists — Online has brought so many benefits, but it also took away a more personal contact with people. So, make sure that the Media like and trust you by, as Gillian Kushner recommends, “Make virtual work via briefings, kickoffs, and launches. That way, you can still have that face-to-face connection, you can answer questions and you can continue to reinforce those relationships.” Wise words.

Be different from the rest — It’s no surprise that journalists receive dozens of pitches every day from so many different organizations. So, if you want them to care about what you have got to say, show them why you are different. “Why should I care?” they will think. Give them the answer. Walk a mile in their shoes and think about what they would want to know. Through your pitch, share your culture, your insights, and, most important, your story.

Improve your email pitch — Related to the tip above, here is one more. Andrew Dunn says that you should “think about what the headline of that story would be” and focus your pitch on that. Go straight to the point and remember: “Why should I care?” Use short sentences and a more human approach, as if you were in a real conversation. Also, don’t be afraid of receiving a “no.” Think of that as an opportunity to learn and keep going.

If you want to know more tips on how to nurture these relationship, take a look here.

The pandemic changed so many things, and we need to adjust and move on. Remember the importance that the Media has on our work as PR Pros and keep on strengthening these relationships.