You decide if the media is for you or against you.
Media relations can feel like a highwire act with no net. It is easy to feel like “the media is out to get us,” but I have never, not once, ever, seen the media being unfair to a client. Yes, I have seen them be harsh, and even make mistakes, but never deliberately unfair. Yet many companies start their discussion with us by telling how the media is out to get them, or twists what they say, or is “on the other side.”
Where do these negative perceptions come from? Virtually without exception, they are the tatters left after years of poor media relations by those companies. Years of being secretive or dishonest or simply rude whenever the media came looking for information. Oh what a different relationship those same companies discover once we work with them to create positive and proactive media programs.
We say it often, but the keys to any communications strategy are honesty and respect. Once a company accepts that, and starts to see the media as a receptive channel rather than “the enemy,” wonderful results follow… often in a surprisingly short period of time.
Lorne Pike & Associates can help you understand and relate effectively to the media, whether local, national, or international. We work with you step-by-step to map out the media of most importance to you, and how to create releases, backgrounders, media events, and news stories that present your story clearly and in a positive light. Our releases have brought our clients positive coverage in some of North America’s and Europe’s leading media channels. But best of all, that newfound understanding has led to long-term happy relationships where there once was suspicion and acrimony.
Needing help with your media relations program? Good news. Help may be just minutes away.