PR@ctical {Issue 12}
iOS 14 Digital PR Shortcuts, #Threadboosting & TV show pitches
Happy October 21. No, nothing special is happening, I’m just looking for reasons to celebrate. You’re here, I’m here. That’s pretty awesome.
Let’s get to it.
I’m going to share one of my tried and true opportunities for gaining influence and building connections that can eventually lead to media and/or mentions.
Also, I’m starting to add my entire Media on Twitter List compilation in a single page.
**INSTAGRAM LAUNCHED BADGES!**
My first set of Digital PR Shortcuts {User Level: Easy}
I’m working on a full set of “Shortcuts” for digital PR, marketing and communications professionals. This is my entry-level guide of things that can streamline some of our most common tasks.
“Hey Siri, Film This”
Whether it’s for work or personal use, many times I take a video I want to use for Instagram. This “Shortcut” reduces the number of taps to get my IG video in motion by four.
Voice activated: “Hey Siri, Film This”
Select “Front” or “Back” camera
When done, Instagram automatically opens
Select “Stories” or Feed”
**To create your own version of this, use your “Shortcuts” app (it should be already installed or grab links to mine.**
Twitter DM (go right to Twitter DMs)
AUTOMATION: When I arrive at the office…
At X:XX Text Me These Links
BONUS: Email me my daily schedule
Engagement Hack: Linkedin, Twitter & Facebook
You’ve likely heard of “newsjacking,” but do you know about #threadboosting?
Instead of the concept of taking over something or simply inserting yourself into the conversation, {threadboosting} implies value, thoughtfulness and positivity. It is more than a quick one-off moment to take, steal or “jack” attention.
Capture, re-purpose and add original commentary to a trending Twitter thread
Respond to and/or create unique content for a trending Linkedin post
Comment and/or share a highly engaged Facebook post
Theadboosting works in both synchronous and asynchronous platforms. I like that Linkedin shows trending and top posts in your feed even if they’re a few days old. It gives you an opportunity to contribute to something that isn’t fleeting or too far down in feeds that it doesn’t matter.
The tools I use to support #threadboosting engagement:
Slack
ToDoIst
Biteable, Canva
Here’s how it works:
—> Identify a highly engaged conversation on Linkedin, Twitter or Facebook
—> Construct a thoughtful response that adds value: tips, tools, resources and gives people an action they can take
—> Respond to others in the thread, find new people to connect with — 🔑
Because I work with multiple clients and multiple spokespeople within each organization, I rely on Slack and ToDoIst to help me manage all of the opportunities: assign deadlines, assist with response ideas and follow the results once they’re completed.
I really like to use videos to showcase recognition, awareness and highlight a list of tips. My go to resource —> Biteable.
Since Linkedin doesn’t let you attach videos in the comments, it’s best if you private message the original creator and see if they’d like to share the video in another way.
FIND ALL THE TV MEDIA OPPS
Did you know popular TV shows regularly post when they’re looking for sources or talent for upcoming episodes? Look for a “be on the show” page for the show you’re looking for. Typically the submissions will filter through some level of producer to identify whether or not you’re a good fit (so your pitch REALLY matters).
If you don’t already have a inside connection at one of these shows, this is your next best opportunity to reach someone there.
Save your favorites from the list below as bookmarks so you can reference them regularly (or, add the links as calendar reminders to check their lists monthly):
Tamron Hall: Be on the Show
The Real: Be on the Show
DIY Network: Be on a Show
Kelly Clarkson Show: Be on the Show
The Doctors: Be on the Show
Rachael Ray: Be on the Show
Dr. Phil: Be on the Show
Dr. Oz: Be on the Show
BONUS —> Send your news tip or story idea to any NPR show
I hope you are safe and well.
Best,
Sarah
p.s. I’m getting ready to create more digital PR guides. Let me know if there’s a topic you’d like to see.