How To Create The Ultimate Media Kit
Are you ready to step into the spotlight? As a business owner, the time may come for you to more publicly represent your company. After all, you've got a message to spread, a campaign to launch, a work of genius to sell. Now more then ever, we are using a multi-media range of platforms to promote ourselves. So, I thought that I would put together my ultimate wish list, as a marketer and designer, of all the things that I would like to see from my clients (or from anyone out there) putting together a media kit. Our goal is to make it ridiculously easy for those media mavens to get their hands onto you. When you're finished, devote a page to it on your website or package your media kit all pretty like in a pdf. Ready? Here we go!
1) LET'S GO WITH AN INTRO
Write an intro paragraph explaining exactly what type of media connections and opportunities you would like to make. It seems obvious, but it's amazing how many people leave this out. Plant the seed. Let people know that you are open to video interviews, podcasts, television, etc. Be sure to mention that you are open to different formats as well. For example, that you can be interviewed via phone, e-mail and recorded Skype video, as well as in person.
2) TELL IT LIKE IT IS
Set the perimeters for how things can go. This is about going pro sweetheart! How far in advance do people need to contact you? Request that they send you a link to their website/blog/publication etc. so that you can decide if it is a good fit for you.To me, 'a good fit' means that the media outlet is in alignment with your brand values. Do they have a proven track record? Are they reputable? Do some Google snooping to make sure that it is in your best interest to be associated with them. Think strategically here, you want to make sure that you are placing yourself in front of audiences that will resonate with what you have to offer.Also, request that your interviewer send you their questions in advance so that you have a chance to go over them and prepare your thoughts.
3) LEAVE YOURSELF A WAY OUT
This is the professional's version of a friend calling you on a blind date, 'just in case.' Put it in writing that you don't accept all interview requests. Give a reason that is authentic to you. Being up front and honest about this can save you a lot of potentially awkward e-mail correspondence later on.
4) COPY & PASTE BIO
Write a brief bio describing who you are and what you do. This 'copy and paste' paragraph can be used as needed by any journalists, bloggers, or media enthusiasts interested in featuring you.
5) BRAINSTORM
Do some of the heavy lifting. Supply a list of topics that are relevant to your work or area of expertise. The media is constantly looking for fresh, innovated and engaging content for their audiences. Give them some ideas for the type of content/stories/features that may be well suited to you.
6) COME OUT WITH YOUR HEAD UP
Include a minimum of three and as many as five high resolution, downloadable and delectable head shots of yourself in your media kit. If you have any programs or products associated with you, attach photos of those as well.
7) BRAND IT
If you have a wordmark or logo of your business name, provide a downloadable version of it in .png, .pdf and vector format(s) if possible.
8) GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO TWEET ABOUT
If you have any clips of writing or bit-sized quotes that really speak to what you are all about, include them in your media kit for sharing on social media. Use 'Click To Tweet' to automatically turn your 'tweetable' into a link going straight to twitter.
9) SHOW OFF
If you have ever been featured publicly before, provide links or embeds in your media kit. People will love to see you in action! Well, there you have it. I hope that this is helpful to you as you promote yourself online.
All the best on your journey to the top!
Brooke