Get Media Attention

Now that September 27th 2008 is over, we are no longer actively updating the Resources section.   If you are looking for get engaged in the movement for green jobs and an inclusive green economy, visit Next Steps.

The content below is dated to before the day of action.

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Courtesy of STAND and ServiceNation

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Media publicity is a great way to boost attendance at your Day of Action event and spread the word about Green Jobs Now. When first contacting the press, write up a media alert or a press release and send it out to as many news outlets as possible. Remember to focus on the core message of Green Jobs Now:  creating jobs in the "clean and green" economy will help solve both the economic crisis AND the environmental crisis.

Media Alert vs. Press Release

A media alert is the basic facts of an event, the who, what, where, when and why. It publicizes an event to the press and invites them to come.

A press release is essentially a one page article about your event, written from your perspective. It can include quotes from event organizers and attendees, and a much greater level of detail. As STAND (the Student Anti-Genocide Coalition) put it, “think of a press release as a way to write the article for a reporter.” Press releases are usually written in Associated Press style, going from most to least important information. Look for an example of any AP news story for more guidance.

Both media alerts and press releases are usually less than a page, so don’t worry about making them longer.

Sending Out the Alerts

Send information about your event to as many press outlets as you can think of.  Prioritize local outlets first, since they are more likely to send a reporter to your event. Community and local newspapers are key, as are nearby college and university newspapers. Try local radio stations, too. If you’re planning a larger event, contact local television news channels, or even the local affiliates of major networks like CBS, CNN, NBC and Fox. Contact information for local affiliates of these channels can be found on their websites.

It's important to grab reporters' and editors' attention quickly.  If you are sending an e-mail, make sure the subject line is catchy.  If you are sending a press release, make sure the headline is clear and grabs your attention.

And when you are dealing with the press, the most important thing is always to have a clear message.  Know what you want to say and stick to it.

Media Timeline

• 1-2 Weeks Before the Day of Action: Contact as many media outlets as possible with your press release or media alert.
  
• 3 Days Before: Call and e-mail all of your press contacts and remind them about the event individually.
  
• 1 Day Before: Call and e-mail all press who responded to your alert or press release and try to get a list of who will come.  Make sure to give any more information they might need.
  
• September 27 — Green Jobs Now: Make sure there are participants to speak to the press.  Remind your speakers (if you have some) to take questions after their presentations.