How To Make Your Website Attractive To Journalists

Many public relations professionals find themselves easily spending tens of thousands of dollars or more, building and maintaining a website. Additionally, they may budget thousands more every month on public relations. But is the website itself media friendly? Does it make it easy for editors, analysts and writers to find the information they need?

I doubt it

Many journalists conduct their research online. It is a great tool to them. Many journalists like doing research at night or during odd hours, when they won't be bothered by ringing phones. However, when reporter visits the website to conduct his|to do some} research|to gather information} and write about a company or its products, {they can't often find the information they need|often they can't find {the information they are seeking|what they are looking for. When your pr department is home asleep, your website is your only representative to the press.

Here are several tips to be sure your website media friendly:

The Information and Organization

How easy is it to find information on your site Is there a logical site map? How about a a way to search the site? Can editors quickly find the the information they are looking for? A good website should be fast, easy to use, and have essential information on the home page.

Editors are in a hurry. If they can't find the information they need from your website, they'll just look elsewhere. Editors who are happy produce good copy. You don't want to annoy them. Therefore, you should make certain your site map is comprehensive, up-to-date and accurate.

Comprehensive Product and Technology Sections

Writers may not be up to speed on the technology. Some editors are just want the big picture. But others will want the specific details of your technology and product. Your website should provide access to various levels of technical expertise.

Your website should contain comprehensive sections such as:

1. An About Us" section describing what your company does.
2. A short history of the company
3. Product data sheets
4. Executive bios, especially if they are known in the industry
5. News or Media Releases and featured stories
6. White papers and research studies.
7. Information regarding of awards and honors your company has received
8. Information regarding of prior news coverage
9. Your company's logo and contact information
10. Short, detailed descriptions of each product
11. Photos for each product and company executive

You site should contain up-to-date information on product names, features, prices, etc. Journalists may go directly to your site and print information they find there without checkingto see if it is accurate or not.

The press release sections are vital as well. It helps if your press release section is searchable by both date and topic. A good website needs comprehensive press releases with up-to-date contact information listed. Most importantly make sure your news is easy to access.

Easy to Find Contact List

Writers may need something that can't be found on the website. They might need a quote from the president or product designer. You should have a staff member that can quickly respond to the demands of the press. If your website is not press friendly, the editor might move onto a website that is more press friendly.

Complete contact information should be readily available. This includes things such as phone numbers, addresses, email, and names they can publish. Reporters are often in a hurry and prefer telephone to email. The press email address should be frequently checked. If the PR inquiries go unanswered very long you could lose your opportunity at free publicity.

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