As a TV producer, I’ve worked with dozens of presenters. Some of the greats – including David Dimbleby and David Attenborough. And some of the not so great – who it’s best not to name. So I’ve got a pretty good idea what goes into being a good one. Of course, you need the talent for […]
Andy Coulson, me and our first job
Andy Coulson was already a reporter on the Evening Echo in Basildon when I arrived, way back in 1988. We were both products of the Westminster Press Editorial Training Course – five months of lessons in law, local government, shorthand – and, of course, learning how to write for newspapers. And for both of us, […]
Five things you should know about production
We all watch television and Youtube, but how often do we think about what goes into the production of TV programmes or videos – and what would happen if we were filmed? If there’s a chance that you might be on a programme or involved in a video production, here a five things that you […]
Five things you should know about print journalists
A lot of people have never met a print journalist – and may never want to – but if one ever calls you and wants to interview you, it’s as well to have a bit of inside knowledge. So here are five things that might help you when speaking to a journalist. 1. If a journalist […]
Make sure your voice is heard in the media din
For the past couple of months we’ve been working very closely with client on their response to a major government policy review being announced next month. So I’ve been reflecting on the best way to get your voice and views heard. Of course, not knowing exactly what the potential government reforms will be, or exactly […]
Three lessons we can all learn from BP
Most people would agree that BP is going through a hard time at the moment. Whatever the reasons behind the catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf, the way the company has handled its public relations has made things far far worse. Every day brings a new own goal and fresh load of criticism in the media.It seems […]
What's the point of doing media interviews?
When politicians are ripped to shreds during interviews by the likes of Jeremy Paxman, and reputations are dragged through the mud by the tabloids, it’s no wonder many people are extremely wary of giving interviews in the media. But there is a very good reason why people agree – editorial coverage is a great free […]
A few good story ideas …. part two
In the second of two posts with some ideas for stories to boost your media relations. Events What’s happening at your offices or factory? For example are you holding a big celebration for your bicentenary? Is this something that might interest someone other than your wife and mother? Can you imagine boasting about it to […]
A few good story ideas …. part one
If you want the media to give your business coverage, you have to know what stories would interest them. With our years of experience of media relations – from the journalists side of the fence, we know that these ideas should tempt the most hard-nosed news editor: Do you have a celebrity visiting? If it’s […]
Four tips to help spark the interest of media editors
If you want to increase your media coverage – and after all editorial coverage is far more valuable than advertising – then these four tips will increase your chances of interesting an editor in a story. 1. Target your stories The first thing to remember is that what makes a good story for one journalist […]
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