Earned media has long been a crucial component of public relations (PR) strategies. It refers to the coverage that an organization receives through word-of-mouth, media coverage, social media shares, and other forms of organic publicity. Earned media is often seen as more valuable than paid media because it is more authentic, and it can help to build trust and credibility with target audiences. However, with the rise of digital marketing and social media, some have questioned whether earned media is still relevant. In this article, we will explore why earned media is still crucial for your PR strategy.
Table of Contents
Why earned media is still important
1. Earned media is still important because it is one of the most effective ways to build brand awareness and credibility. When your organization is mentioned in a news article or shared on social media, it is seen as a third-party endorsement. This type of endorsement is often more powerful than any advertising or marketing message that your organization can create on its own.
2. Earned media is still crucial because it can help to drive traffic to your website and social media channels. When people read about your organization in the media or see your content shared on social media, they are more likely to visit your website or follow your social media accounts. This can help to increase your overall online visibility and build a stronger online presence.
3.Earned media is still important because it can
help to position your organization as a thought leader in your industry. When
your organization is mentioned in the media or your content is shared on social
media, it can help to showcase your expertise and knowledge. This can help to
attract new customers or clients, as well as build stronger relationships with
existing ones.
How to earn media coverage
1. Now that we’ve established why earned media is still crucial for your PR strategy, let’s explore some strategies for earning media coverage. Here are a few tips:
2. Create newsworthy content: The key to earning media coverage is to create content that is newsworthy and relevant to journalists and media outlets. This could be a new product launch, a newsworthy event, or a thought-provoking opinion piece.
3. Build relationships with journalists: Building relationships with journalists can help you to earn media coverage. Take the time to get to know journalists who cover your industry, and provide them with helpful information and insights.
4.Use social media to your advantage: Social media is a powerful tool for earning media coverage. Share your content on social media and engage with journalists and influencers in your industry.
5. Leverage existing relationships: If you have existing relationships with partners, customers, or other stakeholders, leverage those relationships to earn media coverage. For example, ask a satisfied customer to write a testimonial or share their experience on social media.
Conclusion
Earned media is still crucial for your PR strategy. It can help to build brand awareness, drive traffic to your website and social media channels, and position your organization as a thought leader in your industry. By creating newsworthy content, building relationships with journalists, using social media to your advantage, and leveraging existing relationships, you can earn media coverage and reap the benefits of this powerful PR strategy.
