Getting featured in top-tier media like the Wall Street Journal is no small feat. At Disrupt PR, we’ve perfected a strategic approach that not only secures these coveted spots but also aligns with our clients’ goals and the latest media trends. Here’s how we did it for our client, Shane Mahoney, and how you can apply these steps to achieve similar results.

Step 1: Set Clear Goals and Understand Client Needs

Shane Mahoney’s ambitious goal was clear: “I want to be featured in the Wall Street Journal.” Clear, measurable goals are crucial as they guide your strategy and efforts.

Tip: Identify and document your specific media goals. Whether it’s securing a feature in a top publication or boosting your online media presence, clarity is key.

Step 2: Stay Ahead of Emerging Trends

In the fast-paced digital age, staying on top of emerging trends is vital. We pinpointed key trends like ‘quiet vacationing,’ the rise of remote work, and the surge in summer travel. These trends helped us shape a compelling narrative for Shane.

Tip: Regularly research and monitor industry trends. Tools like Google Trends, industry reports, and social listening platforms can provide valuable insights.

Step 3: Align Expertise with Hot Topics

We positioned Shane Mahoney as a thought leader in the travel industry by aligning his expertise with hot topics. This made our pitch both relevant and timely. For instance, the ‘DO NOTHING’ vacation trend resonated with many looking for laid-back escapes in 2023.

Tip: Match your expertise or your client’s expertise with current trends. This increases the likelihood of your pitch catching the media’s attention.

Step 4: Craft a Targeted Pitch

Our targeted approach involved focusing on a specific consumer-travel reporter at the Wall Street Journal. We ensured our pitch was tailored to their interests and the publication’s audience.

Tip: Research journalists and tailor your pitch to their beat and interests. Don’t pray and spray! Journalists who typically write about your industry are your people. Personalization is key to standing out in their crowded inbox.

Step 5: Use Data to Support Your Narrative

Data can significantly strengthen your pitch. For Shane, we highlighted how 80% of his clients wanted to relax post-pandemic, preferring beach time and chocolate tastings over more adventurous activities. We also noted the rise of month-long vacations enabled by remote work.

Tip: Incorporate relevant data and statistics to support your narrative. This adds credibility and makes your story more compelling.

Step 6: Follow Up and Build Relationships

Securing a feature often requires persistence and relationship-building. We maintained regular contact with the reporter, providing additional information and angles as needed.

Tip: Follow up on your pitches and build relationships with journalists. Consistent communication can make a big difference.

Step 7: Leverage the Coverage

Once Shane Mahoney was featured, we amplified the coverage through social media and other channels, further establishing his authority in the industry.

Tip: Promote your media features across all your platforms. This not only extends the reach of the coverage but also boosts your credibility.

Securing high-level media placements is a strategic process that involves setting clear goals, staying ahead of trends, aligning expertise with hot topics, crafting targeted pitches, using data to support your narrative, and building relationships with journalists. By following these steps, you can turn media dreams into reality, just as we did for Shane Mahoney.

At Disrupt PR, we specialize in making these strategies work for you. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help your brand achieve high-profile media coverage.