Don't Fluster the Media

At a meeting the other night, I was introduced to a woman who bombarded me with, “Oh hi, Kelly. I saw your profile in the paper. Did you get my packet?”

Flustered, I wasn’t sure how to respond because I had so little information. First, I didn’t have her last name. Second, I had no idea what she did or what kind of information would have appeared in said “packet.” Third, I didn’t know how or when I would have received it.

The moment gave me brief insight into how journalists feel when PR folks call up and say, “Hi Lois, this is Jim. I was just calling to see if you received my news release.”

Never insist that your representatives do this. It’s beyond irritating for the media, and it has the potential to damage not only your rep’s reputation, but your own.

Consult on Yourself Every Now & Then

You know how accountants have some of the most messed-up check registers; landscape architects have some crazy-looking yards; and it isn’t unusual to see an on-duty nurse on a smoke break?

Well, PR practitioners are no different. We know the value of PR, yet we rarely use it to promote ourselves. Blame it on lack of time, dedication to our clients, whatever. But the truth is we all need to get better at tooting our own horns.

I tooted mine this week, and you can see it here. The results, to-date, have been spectacular. I have two client prospect meetings, as well a get-together with a book publisher, scheduled for this week. I’ve also secured a board position (albeit for my husband) and met several colleagues with whom I think a great working relationship is in store.