10 Easy Ways Bloggers Can Get Media Attention

The blogging world can be tough. Beyond the glitz and the glam, the perks and the many opportunities, there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to produce great content on a regular basis. So when we’re recognized not only by our peers but then receive recognition by various media outlets, it truly is an honor.

I believe when it comes to media, it boils down to relationship building, great content, and being willing to jump at (the right) opportunities as they arise. As I mentioned in this post on The Niche Parent: Having a great product like a book with great topics you can pull from is a strong marketing tool, and it was for my sister and I when we created Whose Shoes Are You Wearing? We did a ton a media interviews both TV and radio when our book first launched. It was timely and catchy. But even before the book launch, I did some local cable TV interviews as well as a bunch of podcast and blog interviews (and continue to do so). I also did some pitching with HARO which is how I got the opportunity to be on both Dr. Oz and The Chew.

One of my goals this year was to get more media opportunities with my brand behind them, and me as the expert. I started to protect my time more, and got strategic with the events that I attend and the connections that I make. I did a sponsored event, and made a great connection with the host of that event. When she posted in a Facebook group that she had someone who was looking for a blogger to do a TV segment, I immediately jumped at the opportunity.

I was very fortunate to receive that opportunity, because that one has led to several more. That client sent me on two segments back to back because they loved what I did the first time. Then when another opportunity came about, I was top of mind for them and they sent me again. Because I take a lot of pride in what I do, it shows and during my last segment with WBAL, the producer came to me and told me how great I did, and that I was free to pitch a segment to her any time. This is what I pitched and the segment that I did shortly thereafter.

Even though some of the activities I talked about in my segment were product placement, it was still very organic and authentic to my blog and my brand. The anchors and producers didn’t feel like I was selling anything, and they appreciated what I brought to the table. I practice and I research what I’m talking about because there are no cuts in live TV LOL.

So in addition to what was shared on Niche Parent, here are 10 more easy ways that bloggers can get media attention:

1. Pitch yourself:

Start with local cable access if you have to; go and sign up for HARO if you haven’t already. Send your media kit out to local news and radio stations with pitch ideas. You can send links to your most popular posts and create a pitch from there.

2. Get a publicist:

If you’re pressed for time (many bloggers still work FT), partner with a publicist that knows what they’re doing; often times, other people can sell us better than we sell ourselves.

3. Share, share & share some more:

Post pics and share blog posts of you speaking or doing media interviews – it shows your credibility. I don’t post every single speaking engagement I do, but I try to post as many as possible, and have gotten leads/bookings because of it.

4. Own your stuff:

If you’ve been featured on any major media outlets, be sure to shout it from the rooftop. Every feature is an opportunity for you to collect another logo. Be sure to add those logos as a “featured in” section on your website (like I have in my header).

5. Be authentic:

Speak about or share topics that are organic to your expertise/brand. And if it doesn’t connect with your brand, don’t be afraid to say no thank you.

6. Do great work:

Producers and agencies like it when you make their job easy. So if you do great work the first time around, they won’t have to look for someone new when another opportunity comes about.

7. Be timely:

If there’s a holiday coming up or special event, how can you present it in a way that’s unique, fun, creative? I recently did a Memorial Day, Father’s Day and Summer Fun segment for Baltimore’s Fox 45 and WBAL. I use Pinterest a lot for inspiration, so it’s not hard to come up with ideas.

8. Do your research:

What type of segments are currently featured in your local news market that fit in with your niche? What value can you add? Study the reporters and the stories they share, as well as the stories in your local newspapers.

9. Reach out to bloggers:

The more interviews you can be seen in, the better. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your blogger peers and ask them for a feature on their site. It’s a great way to cross promote and get some free content. Check out this must see video from Gary Vaynerchuk on 1 is greater than 0.

10. Preparation is key:

Live TV can be daunting enough without the added pressure of not being prepared. I’ve been on segments before where I was still trying to set up and they went live before I was done. But I was able to play it off, smile and roll right into my content. Anything can happen. So as long as you’re prepared, you’ll be fine.

Let’s face it: PR leads to exposure which leads to credibility, which leads to traffic, which leads to more sales in your business. So getting more media attention should be on every entrepreneur and blogger’s short and long-term goal list.

What are some ways you’ve garnered media attention?

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20 Comments

  • Holly
    July 3, 2015 at 10:22 AM

    Awesome to see your doing so many wonderful things. Great advice.
    Holly would like you to check out…4th of July at the RoseBowl in Pasadena, CAMy Profile

  • Kita
    July 3, 2015 at 3:49 PM

    I need a publicist bad I think that is where I am lacking I need someone to help me get out there to people to help sell me because lawd knows I lack in that area. One day when I get some more moolah that is the first thing I will do is hire one. Being timely has helped me a whole lot I do a fun challenge on instagram that allows me to keep up with the holidays and have others join in.
    Kita would like you to check out…Fab Top 5: 5 Ways to stay cool this summerMy Profile

  • Aisha Johnson Adams
    July 3, 2015 at 10:19 PM

    This is a great blog. I am trying to put out a few pitches a week. I also need to connect with the local news station… They could use some diversity.

  • Tyra
    July 5, 2015 at 1:24 AM

    I love these tips and will bookmark this as a resource. I definitely need to get media exposure so thank you for the advice!
    Tyra would like you to check out…Embracing Independence: My Solo International AdventureMy Profile

  • Mimi
    July 5, 2015 at 8:26 PM

    Great tips! I have been sitting in the wings really getting my strategy together. I think timing is everything and I am ready to start taking some additional steps in garnering media attention for my blog. Thank you for sharing these nuggets of information.
    Mimi would like you to check out…{VIDEO} H&M. Gap. Tanger Outlet Back to School Shopping HaulMy Profile

  • Bernetta
    July 5, 2015 at 8:40 PM

    Great tips and I am taking notes. I want to pitch my local media here. Like another blogger said, I need/want a PR person and get my strategy together.
    Bernetta would like you to check out…Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies RecipeMy Profile

  • Jonna
    July 5, 2015 at 9:36 PM

    These are some great tips. I would love the opportunity to be featured live on local TV. I’ve had an event featured, but just a story about it. Live TV would be amazing!
    Jonna would like you to check out…How to Spruce Up Your PatioMy Profile

  • Adanna
    July 5, 2015 at 9:53 PM

    Thank you so much for sharing all of the Christine. One of my goals is to do get media attention and do a live segment. I know it will be great exposure for my DIYs. I Am a bit concerned as NY is such a staurated market but I guess creating good content and a marketing tool as you mentioned will be key. Lots to consider. Thank you.

  • Michellette "MimiCuteLips" Green
    July 6, 2015 at 1:06 AM

    Great tips, I need to get my face on the tube. I’ve had my sneaker business featured a couple of times but never my face.

  • LaShawn
    July 6, 2015 at 9:44 AM

    I am taking NOTES! This is so timely since I’ve been thinking of how I can branch out and get into media! Thanks for the tips!
    LaShawn would like you to check out…Saturdays ( A Photography Project) 4th of July EditionMy Profile

    • Christine St.Vil
      July 6, 2015 at 10:37 PM

      Awesome, so glad to hear this was right on time! God always knows what we need when we need it 🙂 I can’t wait to see you shine in media LaShawn!

  • Kirstin N. Fuller (@thetravelindiva)
    July 6, 2015 at 5:06 PM

    Christine’s advice is right on the money! I followed her advice and it lead me to my very own segment on WBAL! She knows what she is talking about!
    Kirstin N. Fuller (@thetravelindiva) would like you to check out…Travel Alert…Fab Cruise Deal!My Profile

  • Nancy
    July 6, 2015 at 9:29 PM

    You are FABULOUS!! So awesome to receive such great tips, I am a part of HARO but I haven’t used it as much as I should but I am starting tonight, and will take all of your tips into account….

  • Jaye@Curvatude
    July 7, 2015 at 2:10 PM

    You always bring the best information Christine! Bookmarking this post.
    Jaye@Curvatude would like you to check out…Plus Size {Fashion} Pick of The Day: Caped Maxi Dress #PlusSizePickMy Profile

  • Tiffany
    July 22, 2015 at 4:12 PM

    “Own Your Stuff” Love this!! I am so encouraged by this post to stop thinking it can only happen for someone else. Thanks so much for the reminder that it’s possible but it still takes work.
    Tiffany would like you to check out…This Could Be It | Proving Dreams Can Be Reality.My Profile

    • Christine St.Vil
      July 26, 2015 at 12:12 PM

      You are most welcome Tiffany! I used to think the same thing, so I’m happy that I was able to encourage you 🙂

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