(the press love rhyme)

I would like to add some thoughts on first point about targeting the “right” press. I think this goes beyond just chosing the best medium to communicate your message (print, radio, TV, etc). Its also about finding the media that reaches your particular target audience. Is there a blog, podcast, zine, columnist, or college radio show that would be particularly interested? Or a similar event that you can promote at?

It dosen’t hurt to send out a general press release, but put energy into making direct contact with the more “niche” media. In my experience, a press release and flyer are best when attached a more personal message. After all, nobody likes getting a faceless mass email. Moreover, “niche” media people are more likely to get excited about promoting your event, rather than just listing it.

Even if niche media will reach less people than, say, a major newspaper, you’ll be communicating your message to a more receptive audience. AND, you’ll be able to deliver your message through a source that your target audience already trusts.

Maybe this is because I’m a huge nerd, but some of the blogs I read start to feel like friends after a while…which, as you said, is where the vast majority of press job gets done.