5 ways to master media relations

Pitching and working with journalists is fairly straightforward, but it’s not easy to build a successful relationship. Use these power tips to ensure your news—and client—gets covered.

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Though it was my first time working as a server, I enjoyed it and felt that I had the knack for it. The job itself was simple: Greet diners, tell them your name and that you’re here to help take their orders and record what they would like to eat and drink.

Customer service was—and always will be—the name of the game in the food-service industry to ensure customers are happy and satisfied with the experience.

Fortunately, the philosophy also applies to media relations. How do we ensure that reporters and other members of the media get what they want and are happy with the experience?

Wikipedia defines media relations as “working with media for the purpose of informing the public of an organization’s mission, policies and practices in a positive, consistent and credible manner.”

It sounds straightforward because it is. This element of what PR pros do is not rocket science—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. However, if be done well, media relations can have a tremendous impact on your business.

If you’re looking to generate good PR coverage for yourself or your organization, here are five ways to ensure media relations success:

1. Do your homework.

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