3 Top Ideas For A Winning Press Conference

For a new business, a product launch or the most recent exciting news that needs to be shouted about, press conferences have grown to be an important way of getting the word out about a business's most recent news story. Whether it is a local feature or a nationwide blockbuster, a press conference is a powerful way of directing a business's news through the relevant channels to ensure maximum visibility.

Preparation is the true secret to creating a successful media conference, and this guide will allow you to make the most of what could be an important opportunity to get your concept out to the world.

Choose Your Representatives Carefully And Brief Them Correctly

Whatever news it is that you need the world to know about, it is the people that tell the story that will make the biggest impression. It could be simpler to let a well skilled PR specialist take the media conference, but regularly the awaiting press will want individuals close to the story to say their piece. There ought to be a marketing or communications person there to host the event, but representatives should be those close to the story so that you can give an informed opinion on what is being announced. By having an authoritative voice on your panel, you will boost your chances of the journalists turning up and your story being published.

Select An Appropriate Location

The spot you decide on for your press conference needs to be appropriate for the numbers of journalists attending and what their needs will be. Decide on the scale of the location according to the size of your announcement, and if you do not have the relevant capacity on site, look into hotels and conference centres that may offer you the space you desire. Additionally, your feature stands more of a chance if reporters can report it back quickly, so be sure your location has the correct facilities. A high standard of WiFi should be given, and if you are expecting a radio presence then possessing an ISDN connection will mean they can report live from your conference. Pick a location that will make life as quick and easy for journalists as is possible.

Take Time On Your Press Pack

A press pack can regularly be something of an afterthought but this will be a hugely important tool for developing interest. You would not give a customer a brochure that had been knocked up in five minutes and this same thought process needs to be attached to the press pack. Ensure it is nicely presented and includes everything that may be suitable for the occasion. Ensure the press release that promotes the conference is included, as well as all relevant background information, relevant contacts and a list of quotes from anyone associated with the announcement.

Promotional products are also an important element of a press pack as they are able to give journalists an important reminder of your company in the future. Journalists are always seeking individuals and businesses to give a response to breaking stories, and by offering reporters a reminder of your company you may well be investing in possibly free exposure in the future, turning yourselves into an industry authority. Promotional products such as promotional pens, flash drives and desk items are all functional, meaning they stand a chance of being used frequently and providing a day-to-day reminder of your organization and enhancing the chances of you being used in the future.

The true secret to a successful press conference is in the preparation. Consider what is going to make life as simple as possible for journalists and you're on the right road to getting your message seen.

Alan contributes articles on criteria concerning the promotional gifts industry on behalf of The Corporate Gifts Company.