How to get a journalist “mega excited”? - never use the word “mega”

This was just one of the PR tips shared at the Business Clinic Organisation’s open clinic “Raising Your Business Profile Through PR”.

Ged Henderson, head of content at Thornton Media, a Preston based public relations company, was the expert presenting to a group of more than 30 local business owners interested in learning more about effective PR.

Ged gave his definition of public relations (PR) as "the way organisations, companies and individuals communicate with the public and media.”

As a journalist who has worked with national publications Ged is ideally placed to advise & share tips on just how to get your business profile raised when there is already so much media noise out there.

Hence his tip on never using the word “mega”. An increasingly savvy audience requires information and/or statistics which can be backed up with evidence so words such as “mega” become meaningless in this context.

Interestingly the ideal press release should be between 300-400 words, so yes I have word count on as I write this in an attempt to encourage you to read to the end.

Good PR delivers a positive public image. The unfortunate Mr. Ratner is remembered for all the wrong reasons.

The right public image delivers awareness of who you are and what you do, builds trust in the marketplace & creates strong relationships. So the right PR is invaluable but must be delivered to the right audience.

Ged says make your content fresh, intelligent & newsworthy & something that sparks debate & feedback.

I mean who wouldn’t want to read this-

“Super Caley Go Ballistic Celtic Are Atrocious” Posted on August 22, 2014 by The Sun newspaper.

It does not matter if you are interested in football or if you know that “Caley” refers to Caledonian Thistle the headline grabs your attention doesn’t it.

Talking about feedback some of ours was particularly newsworthy.

“Inspired me to write an article for an issue regarding my industry”. (Daniel Elliott Property Clearance).

“I’ve “mega” got the hang of quotes for promotional purposes now!” (James Yates, Vincents Solicitors).

The Business Clinic were also celebrating their move to new offices following the expansion of the business so the partying continued for several hours with catering provided by Caroline, another local business owner. 400 words!!