So you are officially at a PR crossroads. You've defined your press goals, researched the ideal media outlets, and have sent out your pitches. You've selected the best of your recent events and have submitted them along to your choice of blogs and magazines. You’re speaking more, and perhaps even occasionally finding yourself being interviewed on TV, radio, or your favorite podcast. Slowly but surely, an interest has been struck and your inbox is hopefully filling with messages from those ready to collaborate.
This is a pivotal point for all event professionals hoping to increase their visibility in the marketplace. A life in the media is hectic thanks to a steady stream of deadlines. The ideal event professional understands this and does everything he or she can to ensure the media doesn't have to keep coming back for more information. The less hassle it is to work with you, the more likely they will continue to knock on your door. This is where a media kit can serve you well.
A media kit is an essential component for any event professional who wants to be seen as an expert in their field. Whether one is hoping to become a columnist or wants more opportunities to be quoted, it's vital to have the "who, what, when and where" of what makes you fabulous ready to disseminate.
Like all good strategies, there is a bit of research and team building to do before you officially move forward with such an endeavor. First, find a professional graphic designer who is on the same page as you. Now is not the time to scrimp on anything as there is no substitute for a well-designed media kit.
Additionally, make sure you have clearly defined the purpose of your kit. A media kit to highlight your writing skills is very different from one that is meant to convince others that you are the speaker they want at their next event. If you offer more than one service, you need to decide what in particular will take precedence. The very best thing you can do is to take the time early on in the process to focus on the message you're intending for your audience.
So what does a media kit entail exactly? The components will vary based on your needs but below are a handful of sections to consider:
· Company Background
· Mission Statement
· Biography
· Professional Portfolio Photos
· Testimonials
· Press Releases
· Recent Press
· Social Media Links
· Contact information
When it comes to media kits, the biggest mistake an event professional can make is thinking that they don't need one. Take the additional step to present your very best foot forward with a media kit, and the publicity will no doubt follow.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding marketing and wedding PR firm OFD Consulting. She is a highly sought after industry speaker and serves as a Public Relations adjunct professor for Virginia Commonwealth University, specializing in PW writing and brand promotion.
