April 1, 2009

Is the Press Release Dead?

This morning while doing my daily media marketplace research, I ran across David Henderson’s blog.  According to his bio, David is an author, strategist and former award-winning CBS Correspondent.  The title of one of his most recent posts was:  Die Press Release!!!  If you’re a PR exec or DIY publicity seeker it is definitely worth the read.  In part David says:

A friend was telling me today about a conference she has just attended that brought together a large group of public relations people with a smaller group of working journalists. The discussion had centered, as it often does at such sessions, on what journalists really need in today’s demanding media world, and the merits of press releases.

The journalists unanimously said that news releases are useless. In fact, news releases – which are shared with everyone under the sun through blast email services – are the antithesis of what the media wants. Reporters – whether mainstream or online – are paid to find and report fresh and imaginative stories … stories that haven’t appeared elsewhere.

 Click here to read more…

So are press releases REALLY dead?

As a radio and TV talk show host and media strategist, I say no and here’s why:

While I despise press releases that promote ”chili cook-offs” or black tie galas for the neighborhood non-profit, I think they are still vital IF they’re written correctly! In my opinion, a press release should ONLY be 4 to 5 SHORT paragraphs (one page) and must have 3 things:

1.) A highly compelling story angle and hook.  If the hook is good I can sometimes use it as a teaser, bumper or lead in for my show. 

2.) Concise bullet-pointed facts about the topic that outlines why the issue is important.  If this info is well thought out I’ll pull bits and pieces of that into a segment or story as well

3.) I also like when press releases identify a media-savvy expert that I can invite to be a guest.  Leave out the “canned” quote from an executive you’ve never even seen before.  Journalists can spot the insincerity in those  a mile away.  Instead, I like genuine, heartfelt remarks from a person who can come on my show and make a great guest.

What most PR people forget is that one of the key elements of news is the ability to tell a great story.  Therefore, press releases, if done right, give PR pros and “do-it-yourself” publicity seekers the ability to briefly share a compelling story wrapped in news that is relevant and meaningful.  So, I say long live press releases!

Your thoughts?

March 19, 2009

Alison Storm joins Momentum Media Group as Copywriter

Alison Storm

Alison Storm

Veteran media professional Alison Storm recently signed on to join the team here at Momentum Media Group! She brings a wealth of experience that will help our clients leverage the power of the media to tell their stories.

Currently, we are preparing to take on more small business clients as part of our Platinum Publicity Program. Alison will play a key role in copywriting with a focus on news releases.

Alison Storm began her career as a television reporter, working in newsrooms around the country including WINK in Fort Myers, Florida; KNBC in Los Angeles; and most recently WSPA in Greenville, South Carolina. She conducted thousands of interviews with everyone from movie stars and murders to politicians and police officers. Alison’s assignments ranged from reporting live in the middle of hurricanes to hanging out backstage at a Bon Jovi concert.

Her work was honored in 2007 with a first place award from the Associated Press for environmental reporting. Alison recently turned her focus completely to her passion of writing. She currently contributes to several magazines, websites and blogs including Bargainist.com, named one of the top 100 blogs of 2008 by PC Magazine. Alison has also written for a wide range of companies including a small publishing house and credit card giant American Express. She enjoys combining her experience as a journalist and her passion for writing to help businesses succeed.

“I’ve admired Monique’s passion and excitement for helping others achieve success. I am honored for this opportunity to join her amazing team,” Storm said.

March 18, 2009

Momentum Hosts One Day Publicity Boot Camp