Media Relations
- News needs to be newsworthy. Does the media actually care about this story? When you find a story, also find a person that people can connect to.
- Read the news everyday, including the front page of every section. Get to know what reporters like. Know what you're pitching and who you're pitching to.
- Relationships are important, specificity and content comes from different people. Develop a relationship so people know how and what to send to you.
- Always include a picture, link, and blurb when pitching to the media.
- Think about the times that reporters schedule how they work and when they can talk.
- Subject lines in emails = headlines for the reporter and story.
- Maintain reporter relationships. Often, PR people are too busy about talking about logistics. Chit chat with them like they're your friends and be conversational and approachable.
Social Media
- What are the hashtags for conferences when you're live-tweeting? Do research to find out.
- Twitter: The most popular and successful voice is funny, relevant, well thought-out.
- Facebook will show you things the algorithm thinks you want to see when it thinks you should see it.
- Twitter, on the other hand, is chronological. Tweet the same things on different days and times. Some repetition isn't always bad, but keep it fresh. Keep it conversational.
- Key main words that are important to the story. Be aware of the character limit in tweets. Take your time, and don't gloss over it. Don't use too many buzz words or jargon.
Working in the Office
- Don't be afraid to ask for help, don't try to prove yourself. Promote an open space environment, team work, and be be open to ideas. Never be afraid to ask for questions.
- Ask for explanations because that means you want to learn.
- Email etiquette: know who to CC/not CC. Be careful with reply/reply-all.
Memorial Hermann is currently accepting applications for a fall 2015 internship. Interns will primarily work with social media. Public Relations background appreciated. Send your resume and cover letter to digitalmedia@memorialhermann.org to apply.