Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Alert The Media – My Husband Just Ate a Vegetable!

broccoliWhile I’d love to send out a press release proudly proclaiming the fact that my husband ate a vegetable today, I understand this is only newsworthy to me.

And if it’s only newsworthy to me, it ain’t newsworthy.

What do I mean by “newsworthy”?

While some people see it as a subjective term and open to interpretation, in the media world “newsworthy”’ isn’t really all that subjective.

A press release that is newsworthy is simply one that answers affirmatively to the question…

“Is this information timely or significant to anyone besides me and my family and friends?”

If you can’t say ‘yes’ to this question, it’s time to re-think the content and angle of your press release.  And if you can’t rework it so it is new or interesting – ditch it.  You should be building relationships with reporters and not burning bridges.

So the next time you want to submit a self-serving press release that doesn’t offer any real value to the media outlet’s audience, go take a walk and shake it off.

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Comments

4 Responses to “Alert The Media – My Husband Just Ate a Vegetable!”
  1. The same thing can be said for blogging. Many novice bloggers make the mistake in thinking what they have interest in is what their readers want to read.

    Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Your readers are your most valuable asset whether it’s a press release or blog post.

    Great thoughts!
    Barry Wheeler´s last blog ..Tips for Improving Your Blog and Engaging your ReadersMy ComLuv Profile

  2. Stephanie says:

    Hey Barry ~ thanks for stopping by! I agree with your comments – to a point. :)

    “Many novice bloggers make the mistake in thinking what they have interest in is what their readers want to read.”

    Don’t you agree that most people read/follow blogs because they share a common interest with the blogger? The same is not true for traditional news media. Your ‘news’ has to have a much broader appeal.

    For instance, if I posted a review for a cool new kitchen tool, food item, or recipe on my cooking blog, my readers would most likely be interested. But it’s not ‘newsworthy’ in the same sense that a press release is.

    I think what you’re saying is that the blogger has to offer value to its readers – and not just have self-serving posts about the blogger.

  3. Alice Wilson says:

    Hey, I just want to add…out of a day’s? worth of posts at Ros’ blog, I chose your site, Barry Wheelers’ and Beginners Blogging Coach’s as the ones to visit and add to my bookmarks for future reference.

    I’m no expert by any means. I’m just a person who believes she knows “A” material when she sees and reads it. Thank you.

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