Catapult Public Relations

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05/13/08--16:39: Media Training 101 (chan 1697165)

Preparation is key to any successful presentation or sales call. When it comes to PR, media training is an essential tool to prepare executives and other employees to handle press calls, briefings or tours.  A PR pro will develop messaging topics and potential questions that may be asked during a briefing to increase the likelihood that a positive, “on-message” [...]


06/13/08--16:17: Avoid Buzzwords, Hype and Superlatives (chan 1697165)

Journalists and analysts alike have limited patience with news releases and pitches that are filled with jargon and outlandish claims. Some journalists even use a filter to detect and weed out releases that have too many buzzwords. To keep your release from being zapped, here are some words to avoid: end-to-end, customer-centric, nimble, robust, Web-centric, [...]


07/29/08--18:06: Let the press know how good you really are (chan 1697165)

First, recognize that people want to know about your accomplishments. Second, understand that getting the word out about your recognition helps to build your credibility.


08/15/08--16:49: Competition is Good! (chan 1697165)

Many company execs make the mistake of saying “We don’t have any competitors.” If you don’t have any competitors you either aren’t being honest or you don’t have a market for your product. The willingness to identify who your competitors are gives you credibility and builds trust.


06/02/09--18:27: More is better! (chan 1697165)

Don’t assume that reporters (or even analysts) will know and understand basic facts about your industry, company or product/service.  Oftentimes, they know less about the topic at hand than you think!  It’s good practice to always “start at the beginning” by providing a quick snapshot of your company and product overview while incorporating your key [...]


07/07/09--11:39: Hold the Attachments (chan 1697165)

The proliferation of computer viruses and worms has made everyone leery of opening email attachments, even if the message is from someone they know. Some magazines have installed software that automatically removes attachments before forwarding the message to the intended recipient, but more often than not the entire email will simply be deleted. What that [...]


08/10/09--16:26: Help your Editor (chan 1697165)

Give reporters a clear story idea that you know their readers (and editor) will like.  Think of yourself as their editor before you pitch them and you’ll stand a greater chance of getting your idea accepted.


02/17/10--10:01: Respond Promptly. (chan 1697165)

Always call back the press promptly. even if you cannot answer their question immediately. Let them know you will try to find the needed information or contact. By responding quickly and respecting deadlines, you will become a reliable source and increase the likelihood that a story will run. www.catapultpr-ir.com