Media publicity is something you want to generate. It's free and it gets you the type of exposure most people pay a lot of money for. The key with media publicity is that you can use it for your own publicity over and over again.

Here are some ways to become savvy around reporters that will maximize your opportunities for media coverage.

To garner media publicity you have to be perceived as an expert source. Host as many seminars and get on as many committees as possible.

When the media come to you about a story try to distinguish yourself by thinking of a unique hook or angle. This way your ideas are more likely to get quoted and you get the media publicity over other potential experts.

If you want media attention then you need to treat the media well. Always return phone calls and emails ASAP. The media publicity often goes to the first two out of 10 experts a reporter calls.

Befriend the reporters that cover your beat. Media publicity is sought after so make yourself the go-to guy for one or two reporters.

The media are always looking for interesting stories. Don't just pitch them on you, you, you. If you think of something that is newsworthy you can almost guarantee media publicity.

To get media publicity you have to be creative. Feed the media tales from the trenches and allow them an insiders look at the IT world.

Regardless of how you get media publicity you have to remember not to get frustrated if the media publicity you generate does not attract immediate attention. Even if you manage to land the front page after months of pitching your media publicity idea, you're phone won't necessarily start ringing off the hook. You might get a few inquiries and some congratulatory calls but the media publicity is more about building your credibility than converting sales.

Use your media publicly wisely and translate it into your business' marketing collateral. This is where the real power of media publicity comes into play. You can use it over and over again; long after the newspaper is thrown away or the newscast is finished.

Bottom Line on Media Publicity Build relationships with reporters and make their job easier by pitching them ideas that will garner you media publicity. You will be the big winner in the long run.

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