Press coverage
Getting coverage for your project in the local, regional and national press will raise the profile of the ULF, your union, employers and learners.
What is it that gets you interested in a news story? It’s often those stories about people whose lives have changed, a topic you can relate to, or you learn something new that you can apply to your own circumstances that interest us.
The first step when writing for the media is to decide on the news angle, ensuring that it is relevant, interesting and attention-grabbing. Apparently, 95% of all material sent to the press isn’t used, so your press release needs to stand out.
The media also love statistics (like the one above!) so from the outset of your project, discuss how you might include some statistical research which will provide some interesting results. This is what’s known as quantitative research.
Gaining media coverage
- The first paragraph should include the necessary who, what, when, where and why’s, and act as a succinct summary
- A good headline should state exactly what the release is all about
- Try and include a quote from someone who is well known locally or a learner who has had first-hand experience of your project
- Stage a photo opportunity - such as a launch event, presentation of certificates or a chance to photograph the project ‘in action’
- Ensure that your press release is well-structured, using short paragraphs, snappy sentences and has one-and-a-half line spacing so the editor can write notes alongside your text, if necessary
- Always follow up your press release with a phone call
