By B.L. Ochman
PR people have it rough. Clients want results and they want them in the form of placements. Here are five sure-fire ways not to get them.
1. Not using Google.
I tell you that I will cover your app, or whatever, on Beyond Social Media Show on Sunday, May 8. On May 10, you ask me to give you the link.
Wrong in so many ways.
2. Embargos
You: “Would you be interested in an embargoed interview …”
Me: Not unless it’s a cure for cancer
3. Sending a no news press release
I know we all need to make a living, but sometimes, you gotta tell a client that writing a press release is a total waste of time, effort and money.
Always ask yourself: have I ever seen anything like this covered anywhere, ever?
4. Not knowing how to use your email program
One of my all-time favorite pitches from hell was addressed to “Dear [num] [num]
I wrote back and said I’d read his email when he learned my name and signed it [num] [num]
He immediately responded “[num] [num] is a term of endearment for journalists.”
I ran his story.
5. Offering bribes
“If you can post something online we have some great gifts from [blank] Sports for our partners”
Bonus Link: Dear PR People: Please take this quiz before you send out another press release or email pitch
Image: The Anti-Social Media
