The end of 2014 is nigh and life for you right now is probably full of parties, shopping and organising how you’re going to spend your down time doing not much at all.
I think one of the best things about this time of year (besides the fun things above) is planning for the bright, shiny new year that is approaching. I’m not going to talk to you about preparing your PR strategy for 2015, but this post is about one (very big) part of that strategy. This post is about how you’re going to make your ultimate publicity dream happen in 2015.
Whether your publicity dream is to secure a regular guest spot on breakfast TV, appear on the cover of your favourite business magazine or be the keynote speaker at your industry conference, there is a big element of planning in making it happen.
You may know what your big PR goal is already, but does the TV producer, business journalist or event organiser know about you? If not, you need to make sure you’re at the top of their list when it comes to finding an expert on your topic next year.
Here is a list of steps that you can factor into your PR strategy so when you look back over 2015 you can tick that big goal off your list:
- Be a star on social media – if you’re not doing it already, find out who the movers and shakers are in your industry and follow them on Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Facebook (or whichever the best platform is for your area of expertise). Start using the relevant hashtags so your updates can be found easily in searches, such as #PR, #smallbusiness or #HR. Don’t just connect with these people, but also discuss industry trends, share interesting articles (preferably your own) and comment when you can add extra context. Leave your online connections in no doubt as to who is the expert.
- Build relationships – once you are working your magic online, start connecting offline too and extend your relationship. Do some research to find the most applicable networking events to attend so you can introduce yourself to the media that covers your industry. If you’re targeting print journalists, make contact via email over several months, offering story ideas to show them the areas you can confidently discuss.
- Target other media outlets – while the purpose of this planning and PR activity is to achieve your publicity dream, it will also help your cause if you’ve already been featured in the media. This shows your ultimate media outlet that you can speak confidently with a camera or microphone in your face; essentially proving you’re good “talent”. Look at other publications, websites, TV shows and radio stations that report on your topic (but avoid competitors of your dream outlet) and approach them too. This will build your media portfolio and give you great media practice before the big one comes along!
So when you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying some time with your kids or devouring the latest summer bestseller, keep these plans ticking along in the back of your mind. When you start work again in 2015 you’ll be recharged and ready to take the first steps towards that publicity pinnacle.
What is your ultimate PR goal for 2015?
