Media Kit Construction
Jennifer Locke of Zip-n-Go Blanket says: I've been asked for a media kit -- what exactly is in a media kit? Great question, Jennifer. First of all, a media kit can also be called a press kit. Wikipedia defines a press kit as this: "A press kit, often referred to as a media kit in business environments, is a pre-packaged set of promotional materials of a person, company, or organization distributed to members of the media for promotional use." The traditional media kit is printed and placed in a folder. But these days, the online media kit is the way to go. Having an online media kit available makes you and your company VERY "press friendly". What does that mean? Let's say a reporter is interested in doing a story about your product AND a competitor's product. If she can go to your website and learn more about you and grab a photo of your product, you just made her life much easier. Your competitor doesn't have an online media kit, so the reporter will have to request a media kit and wait for it to arrive by mail. Now, just who will end up in the reporter's story? My money is on YOU because YOU were prepared and you made the reporter's job EASY.
Ok, so just WHAT should be in your media kit?
1. A short bio--a few paragraphs about you and your company. You should include how you got started, where you were educated, relevant experience, awards or accolades received, etc. 2. Past press coverage--any press releases that you have issued AND any mentions you've received in magazines, newspapers, TV, etc. 3. Endorsements--any testimonials from notable people, like celebrities, anyone who is well-known in the industry or from people who have used your product. 4. Photographs--photos of you and your products in both high (for print use) and low (for online use) resolution. 5. Press contact information--your phone numbers, address, email, etc. or your publicist's contact info. So, Jennifer, I hope this answers your question. Let me know if you need more information or have additional questions. Thanks for asking such a great question. -Heather UPDATE 2016:Got a product or service to promote? Free publicity is closer than you may think. It all starts with a Media Kit. Here's what you need to know to present your business professionally and tilt the spotlight in YOUR direction.CHECK OUT THIS POST on how to create a stellar Media Kit of your own!