How Long to Wait Before Following Up with Journalists After Sending a Press Release
When it comes to reaching out to journalists after sending a press release, timing is everything. While it's tempting to want an immediate response, it's crucial to give them the necessary time to review your materials. Experts typically recommend waiting for about 3 to 5 business days before making a follow-up call. This waiting period ensures that the journalist is still engaged with your content and has the opportunity to consider its relevance to their beat and audience.
Why 3 to 5 Business Days?
There are several benefits to this recommended waiting period. First, it affords the journalist enough time to thoroughly review your press release. This includes verifying the accuracy of the information and considering how it fits within the broader scope of their coverage. Additionally, it ensures that your story is still fresh in their mind when they receive your follow-up, increasing the likelihood of engagement.
Best Practices for Follow-Up Calls
When you do make that follow-up call, keeping the conversation brief and respectful is key. Show genuine interest in your journalist's well-being and their professional endeavors. A well-crafted follow-up can expedite the process and improve your chances of getting the coverage you desire.
Understanding the Climate of PR
In the landscape of public relations, it's important to recognize the overwhelming nature of the current environment. With numerous organizations vying for attention daily, it can be challenging to distinguish the noteworthy from the less significant. As a PR professional, your primary goal should be to cultivate a strong relationship with journalists. When journalists know and trust you, they are more likely to open your emails and consider your story, especially if their schedule permits.
While phone communication can sometimes come across as intrusive, using the phone judiciously can be effective. However, it's crucial to use the phone only for breaking or critical news stories. This approach shows respect for the journalist's time and allows them to focus on their work without the pressure of rushing to cover the story.
The Key Element: Relationship
Your relationship with journalists is paramount. Building a rapport based on mutual respect and trust can significantly enhance your chances of securing coverage. If your contacts know that you value their time and the quality of their work, they are more likely to grant you the opportunity to share your story.
When to Use the Phone in PR
Unless it's a-breaking news story or an urgent situation, the phone is usually not the first line of communication. For instance, product launches are often not considered breaking news unless you are Apple or Tesla. It's generally advisable to use more traditional methods such as email to keep your contacts engaged and informed. However, if you need to share information quickly and it's essential that the journalist acts swiftly, then a phone call can be effective.
To ensure that your products or services are covered, it's important to give journalists a reasonable amount of time to research and review them. Rushing them to perform these tasks can lead to inaccuracies or incomplete coverage, which ultimately harms your brand's reputation.
Conclusion
In summary, the right timing is crucial when making a follow-up call to a journalist after sending a press release. Aim for 3 to 5 business days, and be respectful and concise in your communication. Building a strong relationship with journalists and using the phone only in critical situations can significantly improve your chances of getting the coverage you need. For more information, visit the link in the bio.