Any good public relations initiative is structured around strong relationships and strategic communication. The foundation of these initiatives often starts with a targeted media list that is built based on different criteria including location, industry, expertise or area of focus, and more. The process of building a targeted media list takes time and constant tending to as contacts often change and require updating.
The goal of building and maintaining a targeted media list is to elevate you or your client’s reputation in the public eye, within a given industry, or topic of interest. It should be a top priority to remain current in all relative news outlets and build your media connections in order to increase opportunities.
Here are some of the first steps you should take to build a targeted media list:
- Identify key contacts: First and foremost, it is important to identify the key contacts at each publication. You may have a few contacts at each depending on the news, pitches, and outreach you’re sending.
- Build multiple lists: You should develop multiple lists in order to better target contacts with your news and pitches. Create lists based on location, industry, specialties, events, etc.
- Engage in social media: In today’s digital age, it has become increasingly popular to connect with publications and reporters via their social media accounts, mainly Twitter. Seek out your key contacts, stay current on their updates, and build your relationships.
- Update frequently: Your media list will always be a work in progress so be prepared to frequently update your contacts. Also, be mindful of submission guidelines and changes in designated contacts for news, photos, and events.
How often do you update your media list? What tactics do you use to find key media contacts?
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Linda Fanaras is the CEO and Founder of Millennium Agency located in Manchester, NH and Boston. She can be reached at 877-873-7445 or [email protected].
