Spring and Summer Story Ideas

(Cont'd)

...looking at current trends and with “forward thinking.” This will require that you and your team, including the CEO or voice of your organization, are quickly available for comments, quotes and interviews.

Pay close attention to breaking news and find your local angle to a bigger story. When Paul McCartney’s divorce settlement was announced recently, you may have had a great shot at some press coverage if you work with divorce lawyers, women’s issues, marriage counselors, relationship coaches or financial advisors. Any of these could have added their expert advice and analysis to this story. News that Bon Jovi’s Richie Sambora was arrested for drunk driving in California just hit the press. Windows of opportunity are open if you are an alcohol or drug counselor, keeping in mind that Sambora spent some time in rehab, has been through a divorce and the death of his father. As tax season creeps upon us, look for some new angles –like the McCartney divorce - to this story. Reporters are looking for stories on people who have gone through a divorce, the death of a partner, the sale of a home or other major personal event that you can tie into tax season. There’s been news this week of a teenage cheerleader who died while having cosmetic breast surgery. There are local connections with doctors, legal experts, and grief counselors as well.

The key is to pay close attention to breaking news and think quickly to establish an opinion and contact the press. Being proactive coupled with the ability to localize the bigger stories can get you increased press coverage. It also helps to establish your credibility with reporters who need sources. If you do this right, the media will soon be calling you.