May 19

May 19 Nurturing Media Relationships to Your Benefit

In the world of public relations, there is one fact that will forever ring true- we cannot exist without the media and vice versa.

In the last several years, editorial relationships have shifted because of the sheer volume of pitches they receive everyday- quite simply, there are more pitches then there are editors. With that said, having a good relationship with them has become an essential part of getting noticed and will likely lead to more opportunities to get published.

So, what do you need to know when it comes to getting on an editor’s good side? See some of my best tips below:

Be Their Resource

There is no doubt that you are an expert in your field and have a lot of great insight to contribute, but you are far more likely to stick out in an editor’s mind if you stop thinking, “How can I get featured?” and instead think, “How can I be their resource?” The fact is, at the beginning, you may get more no’s than yes’s, but your communication shouldn’t end there. Put your research hat on and do some digging into the editor’s previous articles and pitch them more topics that are in line with what they’re writing. Does your expertise not quite line up with an article their writing? Get them in touch with some of your wedding pro friends that would be the right fit- they won’t forget it.

Keep it Professional

Once you’re in the habit of pitching to editors on a regular basis, you’ll likely find yourself getting on friendlier terms with many of them, which can certainly work to your advantage. However, when that happens, it’s easy to start falling into the trap of letting your pitches and attitude get a little too casual. A little informality with your emails can be a good thing (you’re not a robot!), but make sure you are always mindful of deadlines and submission guidelines, and not asking for extensions because you’re on friendly terms.

Be Authentic

My best editorial relationships are with people that I have connected with on something outside of just pitching. Whether it’s a mutual love of pizza or our distaste of burlap everything in rustic weddings, it’s nice to share a laugh with someone you are working with. Professionalism is always king of course, but it’s ok to get to know editors on a personal level as well.

Getting to know editors and cultivating those relationships does take time and effort, but it will pay off in dividends when editors start using you more and more as their resource!