Although we’ve talked about journalists’ general proclivity for the email pitch, social media still offers public relations professionals a great way to build connections. Several years ago we asked PR pros to talk about their favorite social media platform and how it helps them connect. It’s no surprise that Twitter is still the favored platform, but responses this time showed that Twitter is not the only platform where pros are mixing it up with journalists.
Aliah Davis-McHenry, president and CEO, Aliah Public Relations
I am using Twitter, LinkedIn, and Muckrack the most to engage and reach out to media professionals. My main intent is to build relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers. However, I still use Facebook, their blogs, and Instagram to follow media professionals. The most success I have had is with Twitter and LinkedIn. Twitter is an amazing tool, and I feel like besides email and in-person meetings, it is the most effective.
Amanda Forbes Mestdagh, account manager, Uproar PR
I’d say Twitter is still king. Aside from email outreach, I’m able to get a glimpse at what’s going on in the reporter’s life through Twitter and at times am even tipped off to a story idea that they’re working on. In many cases if a client is exhibiting at an event, Twitter is another vehicle to uncover what journos are active at the show. Instagram can be used to supplement too, and I might refer a journalist to images in an email pitch. Ultimately it comes down to building relationships though. There’s not an overnight trick to media relations.
Jen Dorman, social media and online marketing, BeFrugal.com
I’m responsible for PR and social media, and I’ve found Twitter to be best for PR purposes. Being helpful to writers by “listening” to their tweets is a tactic that helps build relationships. Also, tweeting their articles (on topic and/or that I assisted with by providing an interview or commentary) is often appreciated by them. Many don’t have their own Facebook page, but do tweet often, so it’s a great medium to use for communicating with reporters.
Noah Carpenter, public relations specialist, Riverview Medical Center/Bayshore Community Hospital
[I use] mostly Twitter and LinkedIn; however Jelly has given me a surprising amount of success lately. Funny story, I connected with a reporter on Untappd over one of our favorite beers, and that little connection started a great relationship which has led to some media for me. I think Twitter is the best by far; however, platforms with fewer users like Jelly are great because there’s fewer people, and thus it’s easier to stand out.
Social media is great, but you can never beat face to face. When I use social media, it’s for basic introductory purposes only. After that, I’m meeting them in person, because that’s how trust is built. I love Twitter, because it’s [a] challenge to say everything you need to in 140 characters. It’s almost like the “Elevator Speech” of the digital age.
Misty Starks, president, Misty Blue Media
As a PR professional, I have the most success in pitching my clients when using Facebook. Not only do I get quick responses, but I’m able to send press releases and pictures as attachments, and if need be, I can post video clips of my clients. I’ve also found that my clients are most comfortable using Facebook consistently, which helps me do my job. Facebook has been the best social media platform for me so far.
If I had to pick a second platform, it would be LinkedIn for client promotion, but Twitter is great for getting the word out about my own company’s brand.
