Tips for working with media
From AFSWiki
Contents |
Basic tools needed
• A targeted, up-to-date, media list
• A consent and release form
• AFS fact sheet
• Time – know your media deadlines
• Proper format for a news release and public service announcement (PSA)
• Families and students who interview well
What will get results?
Inviting media to events
o Remember that anything that happens at your event could appear publicly
o Plan four weeks in advance and pitch at least three weeks in advance
Sending a news release and/or public service announcement
o When an event is open to the public, invite people in the community
o Be aware of media deadlines for announcements
o Use Mother’s Day, National Volunteer Week, special events at your school and other occasions to make your stories more timely. Themes definitely help with placement.
Remembering the photo desk
o Invite media to come out for a great photo
o If no one can come, take photos yourself and send them in with the event information
Using hometown newspapers
o Use the letters to the editor sections appropriately
o Post events to the local calendar sections
o Be aware of the interests of hometown reporters
Using school newspapers
o Work with hosted students to write a regular column about their experiences
Top 12 strategies
1. Know AFS’ materials and use what exists
2. Make planning fun! Include others and delegate
3. Develop a media list and use it
4. Cultivate relationships with newspaper editors, writers and columnists
5. Know your local radio or cable shows
6. Select host families, volunteers and students to share their stories
7. Don’t stop with local media – share stories everywhere
8. Use your media clips as word of mouth endorsements
9. Use school resources including newsletters, websites and announcements
10. Use social networking
11. Thank media every time they do something for you and tell them the results
12. Make PR a year-round effort
Click here to download these tips as a PDF.
