How to get media coverage

Public Relations (PR)

In this article

    Some people still believe paying an hourly retainer to a PR agency is the best way to get earned media coverage. That only works if agencies can get reporters and producers to agree that the story is worth sharing with their audiences. Not every agency knows how to do that. So, how is it that Media Relations Agency can guarantee earned media coverage?

    Imagine if Uber Eats arrived empty handed

    Our founder and CEO Lonny Kocina is fond of saying: “Imagine how tiny the pizza industry would be if you priced pizza by the hour with no guarantee of delivery. If you pay for pizza, you should get pizza. If you pay for media coverage, you should get media coverage.”

    That’s why he pioneered our Pay Per Interview® model more than 30 years ago. Clients come to us because they are tired of paying hourly retainers and getting little tangible return. To accomplish what our competition considered impossible, we had to quickly figure out how to make good on our promise of guaranteed media coverage.

    That’s how our Strategically Aimed Marketing (SAM 6®) system evolved. We created a system that is scalable, can be applied to virtually any product or industry, and is based on solid marketing concepts and principles. SAM 6 is so effective that it is also the subject of an accredited marketing class.

    Fill your media toolbox

    Once your strategy is in place, and the messaging in your marketing materials – including your website and other owned channels – are on point, it’s time to start contacting reporters. Plan to nurture good relationships with the media and learn how to anticipate their needs so you can become a trusted resource.

    Especially when your product is not yet well known, getting media coverage may be challenging. Set aside plenty of time. You’ll need perseverance, a willingness to network and a strong understanding of how to tailor your content and approach as the marketing environment changes.

    Media Relations Agency has helped make products famous for more than 30 years. We have the skills and experience to do more than guide you through this process. Our certified SAM 6 marketing pros can do much of the work on your behalf, including arranging earned media coverage, giving you time to focus on your primary responsibilities.

    There’s a wonderful explainer video on the homepage of our website describing how products such as yours can climb the ladder of fame. If you’re curious about how much media coverage we may be able to arrange for your product or business, use this form or call us to schedule time on our calendars.

    Article by Heather Champine, Chief Operating Officer & Partner

    Heather Champine is a Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Media Relations Agency, where she serves as a lead publicist and strategic consultant for brands operating in competitive and regulated markets. With more than 25 years of experience, Heather blends marketing strategy, consumer psychology, and media expertise to help clients clarify positioning, shape compelling stories, and earn coverage that drives real business outcomes. She has led integrated campaigns across industries including medical devices, technology, nutraceuticals, and consumer brands, and is known for her ability to quickly understand what motivates audiences to take action. As a senior consultant, Heather works closely with client leadership teams as an extension of their marketing department, building long-term partnerships grounded in trust, clarity, and measurable results.

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