Survey Asks Reporters How to Get Your Release Noticed

According to a recent survey by Bennett & Company, there are simple ways to get reporters to read your press release.

So how exactly do you get those next-to-impossible to reach reporters to stand up and take notice of your press release? According to a recent study, those who combined email and multi-media were the ones to get noticed.

The report showed that nearly 60% of reporters surveyed said that the availability of multimedia increased the odds of using the story. Those electronic releases that used graphs with trending information, photos, video, or audio, were favored.

Today's reporter is busier than ever, so only those who can make a strong first impression will even get noticed. The survey found that more than 70% of reporters have more responsibilities than ever before and 45% say they have less help.

In summary, the report showed the top ways to get a reporters attention:

Use electronic media such as email to distribute your release or message. Almost 60% of reporters said they would rather get their releases via email.
Target your communications. Those companies sending a personalized communication to a reporter showed higher open rates and pick up.
Provide access to multi-media through attachements. Reporters want to have access to your information without creating clutter.
Give reporters a way to contact you after normal business hours. If you can help a reporter who's on deadline, you increase your chances of receiving mention.

The results of this survey clearly show that reporters are relying more heavily on the internet to receive their news as well as distribute it. To effectively reach your target media outlets, use email and the benefits of electronic communication.