According to Terence Noonan, a four-time Emmy Award-winner and co-author of the new book “Starring You! The Insiders’ Guide to Using Television and Media to Launch Your Brand, Your Business, and Your Life” (Harper Paperbacks, 2007), getting media attention is crucial and easy, if you follow his recipe for success.
“Most of the time, people are unsure where to begin when it comes to getting media attention. Trust me - you don’t have to rob a bank or do handstands to get on television. You just need to use some smart tactics,” says Noonan. “The only thing that separates the person that got their brand, service, or product on television from those that didn’t is perseverance.”
Noonan’s experience in television production and media consulting spans more than 15 years. After producing hundreds of segments for such programs as The Rosie O’Donnell Show, he is now helping others learn the insider secrets to getting the media attention they need and want. Those secrets include:
* Having a clear idea of what it is you want to promote and why you should be the expert to whom they give the spotlight.
* Building a platform before beginning the pitch process. Having a platform shows that others are interested.
* Being familiar with the shows or publications you are targeting. By doing so, you will be able to make informed suggestions about where your message fits in. Always do your media homework before making any contacts.
* Creating the right pitch so it’s not overlooked. Having a professional, eye-catching pitch solves their problem of needing good, reliable sources.
* Following up with all pitches that have been sent, being sure to do so in a gentle way, so that you don’t appear desperate.
* Building relationships with media professionals so they think of you when they are in need of an expert on a topic.
* Before going on a show, always doing your homework, reviewing your message, and dressing the part. Be a good guest and they are more likely to invite you back.
“Once people do this right a couple of times, they can easily become the go-to person that those in media turn to regularly,” adds Noonan. “This has a huge impact on building a platform, increasing name and brand recognition, and for most people – success follows. A little bit of work goes a long way when it comes to getting on television, radio or into print.”
Terence Noonan is currently Executive Producer at WUSA (CBS) in Washington D.C. His 15-year television career includes production positions on The Morning Show with Mike and Juliet, Life and Style, The Rosie O’Donnell Show, Ellen Degeneres, The Montel Williams Show, and All Year Round with Katie Brown. He is a brand-development and recognition expert, and will be teaching online media courses beginning fall 2008.
To learn more about Terence Noonan, visit the Web site at http://www.starring-you.com.
