Issued by: Encyclomedia


Even if you genuinely know that your press release is a perfect fit, keeping in mind that some South African journalists receive up to 800 emails a day, it's unlikely that they'll take your word for it. You need an alternative strategy to make your releases stand out.

Getting your subject line right is the first important step, but it's also important to show your knowledge of that specific title and the journalist's specific angles right upfront in the first sentence.

One great way to do this is to do a quick Google search on the journalist's name. Have a look through a few of his or her most recent articles. Then make a reference to one of these articles in your first sentence. For example: “The story below could be a useful follow-up to your latest Sunday Times article on innovation in the media.”

It may take longer to send your media releases out, but at least you'll be making your emails more relevant to the journalists and thereby building better relationships with them.

For more ideas on how to make your PR pitches stand out above the hundreds of others, sign up for Encyclomedia's free media pitching tips email series. It's full of tips and insights from South African journalists across all media platforms.

Visit our PRESS OFFICE: Encyclomedia offers an excellent media database resource for the PR industry. This service provides 100% verified and custom-researched media databases, where you only pay for the contacts you actually need.- more....

[19 May 2008 16:29]

Share this page (Tell me more)

Click on one of the links below to share this page on a social bookmarking website. To read more on social bookmarking click here