Pet peeves is back in action. Journalists’ inboxes are more flooded than ever. Yet PRs keep showing a lack of understanding of the journalist situation that prevents them from effectively carrying out their jobs. On the other hand, more opportunity for those that do things well to succeed.
Consistency is key. Over the long term, relevant and well-timed pitches will create a long-term relationship that is mutually beneficial. It’s a mystery why so many PRs think it’s better to apply pressure and brute force their way to getting covered, when it’s actually so self-destructive. One possibility is lack of PR education and false expectations coming from above, which end up being reflected throughout the process. As well as exercising self control, a good measure for PR professionals is to prepare in a much more structured way to push back clients and bosses on expectations, even if they will not like to hear it.
New low alert! Faking an email from a journalist by editing the history of the conversation. Wait a second. Why is that even something that is possible to do?
No means no.
Can we try a bit harder on the founder photos?
PS – the startup mentioned by Mike reacted and upped their game.
Do your research. Did you imagine it would be that easy to be on TechCrunch? No! So, go on and find the legit, proper way to make contact.
Some people believe in mail merges for PR. They are wrong.
Two lessons in one! “Following up here” should be banned in emails. Second tip, check what the hell you write in your press releases.
What PRs always try hard to tell founders – it is also their game. They also need to develop relations with journalists. Let PRs take most of the weight off, but get to know journos in your industry.
A reminder of why your pitch and story need to stand out. Even more so, your reputation.
More mail merge fail.
NFT, NFT, NFT.
Explains why our pitch never got traction. Jokes aside, keep in mind journalist inboxes are unmanageable – you need to stand out.
“Please do your research. If not, you are wasting your time”. Highlights once again, the basic level of PR education needed in the startup (and business in general?) community.
Different embargo times to different outlets. That’s a huge no-go. Unless you wanna really piss off the journalists.
An embargo is an embargo. A strict embargo is still… just an embargo.
Not clearly written out as a pet peeve, but we can imagine how annoying this could become if everyone starts doing it.
The art and science of crafting a press release. Rule number 1, you probably shouldn’t have the word probably anywhere in there. Probably best left to Carlsberg.
Don’t expect journalists to write you love letters. Every second counts, so they are likely to avoid formalities and just get to the point.
Just no.
How to creep out a journalist and get blocked by them.
Some people are just deluded.
For journos to wanna speak to founders, get in touch before the news is out!
“Just go out and meet some journalists”.
Patience is a huge asset in PR. Unfortunately, not many clients have it. Learn to manage expectations of clients and bosses, and understand that journalists are time-deprived.
Another huge asset is attention to detail. Journalists may forgive, but they hardly forget – or let something pass untweeted.
We’re surprised the email was even opened on a Sunday. Perhaps the intention was for it to be opened on a Monday. In any case, double-check, that all you do is helpful, rather than annoying, even if it seems like a small thing.
PRs still have a lot to learn about freelance journalists. One lesson: be extra clear in your subject lines.
Adding links to old stories. The job of a journalist? Not really.
