One of our most frequently asked questions: How do I build a relationship with the media? If you're looking to cultivate a thoughtful relationship with editors and writers in your niche, we've got five creative tips to get you started!
image via @shopcreatecultivate
1. Connect on Twitter and LinkedIn
Twitter and LinkedIn are amazing networking tools! Start by following media in your industry and create a list on Twitter of all the contacts you'd like to connect with. A week or two later after engaging with their content, reach out and introduce yourself. The more authentic you are, the stronger your relationship will be.
2. Ask About Their Work Preferences
All writers and editors have their own working styles, preferences and needs. The best way to understand how each works? Observe and ask! When you've established a great working relationship, a few good questions to ask (in moderation!) include:
What kind of stories are right up your alley? Are there certain types or genres you'd especially like us to keep you in mind for?
How do you like to be contacted about stories that are a great fit?
How much lead time do you typically have for stories?
Are there any daily deadlines or weekly meetings that I should keep in mind when I reach out?
3. Celebrate Their Work
Any media appreciate it when you continue to read (or watch) and celebrate their work, whether it mentions your client or not. This could be something as simple as sending a personalized email mentioning you read the story and loved it to sharing the piece on social media and tagging them.
4. Invite Them Out for Coffee
Meeting up with media for some 1:1 time is an amazing way to build a relationship. After you've established an online working relationship, reach out and see if they'd like to meet up for a friendly coffee. This is a great way to learn more about what they have going on, their daily life and share a little bit more about what your brand/agency does as well. Remember to bring your questions and brush up on their recent work before the meeting.
5. Keep in Touch in a Natural Way
It's a great idea to keep in touch with media, but also remember they're overwhelmed with tons of emails on a daily basis. This means keeping an eye on their social for any career moves, retweeting their stories and only sending that email about liking their pieces when it really makes an impact. Don't force it!
Do you have any other tips for connecting with media that you swear by? Drop 'em below!