3 ways to build trust with news contacts

How to cultivate long-term relationships with journalists

Navigating relationships with newsrooms and media contacts is challenging sometimes. Journalists play an important role in sharing your company's story, which, in turn, helps to build your credibility in the marketplace  and attract more customers. Journalists are a key audience for your company, and your success depends – in part – on them.

Working with the media is all about relationships — mutual trust, respect, meeting deadlines, and occasionally making friendship. Here are three important ways trust plays a key factor in building successful, mutually beneficial relationships with reporters, editors, bloggers and producers.

1. Accuracy of information

Journalists are looking for interesting, authentic content. When you send them your news, they trust that it’s accurate. They effectively put their careers on the line when they agree to include you in their content. You undermine that trust if your information is inaccurate.

2. Privacy

When working with journalists, you’ll most likely exchange some personal information, like phone numbers and emails. If this information becomes public, it may jeopardize the journalist’s preference and privacy.

3. Timing

Journalists always work under strict deadlines. When you work with media contacts, you need to respect those deadlines. If you commit to providing information to a reporter or other newsroom contact, always deliver it on time and as promised.

Superior media relations is a critical part of any PR program and any marketing. Building a relationship with a journalist based on trust and respect will benefit both of you in the long run. If you want to learn more about how to strengthen your media relations, download Axia Public Relations’ complimentary e-book “Learn Media Relations From the Media” today.

Clients love Yulia’s eagerness to take on new challenges and her experience in building relationships with target audiences. She has worked with Axia Public Relations since July 2015. Yulia earned a master’s degree in public relations management from University of Maryland University College. She is fluent in Russian and English. Learn more about Yulia. Connect with Axia on Twitter @axiapr or tell us what you think in the comments below.

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