How to Get Good PR for Your Chapter

or, How Come They Always Get the Good Press?

Ever wonder why some organizations in your community seem to get all of the media attention?

You know what we mean — stories in the paper, spots on the evening news, radio interviews. Is it because they’re lucky? No — it’s because they have a connection to the media. And guess what? Your chapter can have one, too!

A press release is a one-page document that fills reporters in on what’s going on with local organizations. Press releases should always contain the following: chapter contact person, headline, city of event and all relevant details. A release may also contain a quote from your chapter president or an invitation to the media to attend your event. The idea is to pique the media’s interest enough to run a story, so be sure to include the “why” — why would readers/viewers/listeners care?

You can send press releases via e-mail to a reporter (this is often the preferred method) or by fax. We don’t recommend sending press releases by snail mail, because information that arrives that way may be viewed as less timely. Be sure to find out what the publication deadlines are for the newspapers in your area so that you send press releases with enough advance notice.

Don’t feel that you have to follow this format or length exactly. Keep your contact person consistent, so that reporters know whom to go to for information. But keep in mind that your contact does not have to be the person to give a quote, just the one who deals with the media and arranges interviews. Always make sure you get approval from the person you quote before sending the press release. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact your WAA representative for guidance.