Securing news coverage for your brand doesnât have to drain your budget. In todayâs landscape, resourceful founders can get their stories on local or even national news by following a calculated, targeted strategy. Hereâs exactly how to land that coverage for freeâand why it matters.
Why News Coverage Matters for Founders
-
Instant credibility: Appearing on legitimate news platforms offers third-party endorsement for your brand.
-
Broader reach: News stories instantly expose you to new audiences.
-
Increased authority: Being âseen on the newsâ positions you as an industry expert.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get On the News for Free
1. Pinpoint a Newsworthy Angle
-
Tie your story to trending topics, timely events, or local relevance.
-
Focus on community impact, unique achievements, inspiring founder journeys, or solving a widespread problem.
2. Craft a Concise, Compelling Pitch
-
Draft a brief press release or personalized email.
-
Lead with the most compelling detailsâthink headlines, not essays.
-
Explain why your story matters to their audience.
3. Identify the Right Journalists and Outlets
-
Create a list of relevant local TV stations, radio stations, newspapers, and online news sites.
-
Research individual journalists who cover your industry, city, or type of story.
-
Connect via social media (X/Twitter, LinkedIn), email, or even their own websites.
4. Build Relationships Before You Need Coverage
-
Engage with journalistsâ content onlineâcomment, share, and provide thoughtful feedback.
-
Avoid generic âblastâ emails; show familiarity with their recent work.
5. Offer Visuals and Expert Commentary
-
Prepare high-quality images, video clips, or live interview availability.
-
Be ready to provide expert commentary on industry trends or breaking news.
6. Leverage Free Local and Digital Platforms
-
Submit your story through tips lines, community boards, or online forms on station websites.
-
Use apps and services that connect you to newsrooms or let you submit directly (e.g., NewsON, Haystack News).
-
Consider platforms like Press Mingle to connect with journalists seeking expert stories and quotes.
7. Follow Up (Politely) and Stay Persistent
-
A friendly follow-up increases your chance of getting noticed.
-
If you donât get a response right away, try a different angle or reach out to another journalist in your list.
Top Tools and Channels for Free News Coverage
| Tool/Platform | What It Does | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Local TV Station | Online forms for story submissions | Community achievements, new launches |
| News Apps | Stream and submit stories for news and alerts | Breaking news, expert commentary |
| Social Media | Tag and message reporters and news accounts | Trends, challenges, expert availability |
| News Matchmaking | Platforms pairing brands with journalists seeking experts | Press Mingle |
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Coverage
-
Customize every pitch to each reporter/outlet.
-
Offer to be a recurring resource on your subject.
-
Be swift and availableâa timely response can make or break your shot at the news.
-
Keep your press kit current and accessible online.
Ready to Get Your Brand Featured?
Getting on the news for free is within reachâespecially with a smart, founder-focused approach. If you want to amplify your story and connect directly with journalists eager for authentic stories and expert commentary, take charge today.
Sign up at PressMingle.com and get your brand in the newsâno budget, just the right strategy.
Start building your brandâs newsworthy presence now!