A news alert is a notification from Google that tells you whenever new content containing your chosen search terms appears online, such as blogs, news articles, videos or scientific research. It’s a great tool for businesses, as it can help you monitor mentions of your name, brand or products in the media.
Use media alerts (also known as media/news advisories) to announce an upcoming event and convince reporters that it’s a genuine news story worth covering. These one-page announcements are sent exclusively to journalists – not the public – and can be used as an alternative to a press release.
To make an impact with your media alert, start with an eye-catching headline that captures the attention of the reader. Then include the key details of your event – Who, What, When and Where. If the event offers photo opportunities, be sure to highlight them. Finally, be sure to provide contact information (names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses) for the person who can answer any follow-up questions.
Mastering the art of creating and distributing media alerts is essential for any PR professional. Whether it’s a simple announcement for a local news event or a full-blown press release distributed through wire services, these tools are an efficient way to communicate your client’s story to a wide audience.