I received an e-mail announcement from a TV-reporter this morning.
It gave me several reminders that I don't think I've ever mentioned on this blog.
First, his message, as always, was right on. The media is going GREEN!
Planet green. Even assigning or hiring a GREEN reporter. TV-stations are adding a GREEN element to their programming. And thank goodness -- something positive!
Jeff Crilley, a friend as well as an award-winning reporter, said this in his e-mail announcement:
"Not since the ecology movement of the late 60s have people cared so much about saving the planet.
And guess what? The media is listening. If you look at the websites of most large newspapers and TV stations, you will find a special section for news stories about what people are doing to become more environmentally friendly. Many media outlets have even dedicated a reporter who has to come up with at least one green story a week.
Do the math. That is 52 fresh angles to the same story a year. And many have been at it for a while. In other words, they are running out of story ideas.
That is where you come in. If your company or organization is doing something to help save energy or reduce waste, let your local media know about it.
Kermit the Frog was wrong. It is easy being green. And if you contact the right reporter, you can help others discover it too."
Along with this e-mail, he also sent a link to his latest YouTube message. If you want to see it, click here to view.
Besides his great message, I'd like to add that building a relationship with TV-reporters, radio producers, and journalists is very important. Not to just use them when you need them but to support their goals as well.
If you think these people are out of reach. Well, some are. But most aren't. There are Jeff's in the world. Rare but nonetheless they are there.
To find someone who's approachable, let me suggest looking for reporters who give seminars, makes public appearances, and have a personal web site.
Now Jeff's videos are rather crude to some. For me, I find them forgiving after the initial one.
Forgiving because of the wisdom he imparts.
He's brave to use YouTube to distribute them. But then again, why not.
The fact that he holds his own video recorder while walking and his head bobbing is a little annoying, I must admit he's a good-looking bobber.
I've learned to look beyond things like the bobbing and just learn.
In his current video, he's outside, walking around his neighborhood, speaking and holding the camera. Wow, Jeff. I can't even walk and chew gum. What a feat!
But the reason he did the recording this way was interesting -- your background needs to be part of your message. Whether it's a photograph, a public video, or even networking at the local Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting.
And as a TV producer myself, this was a great reminder.
Jeff's background, his neighborhood included GREEN grass – enhancing his message.
Now, that's clever.
You see, you'll find Jeff walks his talk. That's always impressed me about him. He keeps his promises and believes in giving back – two of my values too.
Now, Jeff has a book. A good one actually about free publicity. Maybe another checkpoint to look for when choosing a media contacts to build a relationship with.
And yes, I will give a plug for Jeff -- http://www.JeffCrilley.com. Why? Because this guy really deserves it. Just like his videos, his book is very message-able.
Try this goal. This week, research and find locate one reporter – any media – and give them a check-off as to whether they seem approachable. Begin following their career. Later connect.
You can begin by writing them and letting them know what they are doing right.
You don't know where this will go. Either way, it's always attractive energy for you.
Find out if they are listed on LinkedIn (www.LinkedIn.com). If yes, connect. Life is about connecting.
After connect with one, do another. Then another. It's not long before you have enhanced their world, and yours, and others because of it.
Blessings,
C
