Pitching Meetings at Conferences

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Ah, trade shows, conferences, whatever you want to call them. If you have a client at one, chances are they want exposure. Quick. That leaves you, the PR professional to do things such as write press releases, and possibly arrange for a free iPod giveaway. All kidding aside, your clients will probably want to meet with the media at a big industry event, so we’ve drafted up four short tips that we think will help you in this process.

1. Avoid asking for a “thirty-minute briefing,” or other over formalized talk. There are only so many of those a journalist can do in a day. Something like, “meet for coffee” is less formal. If you’re interesting, the reporter will stick around.

2. What is the news? You don’t have news? What can your client comment on that is in the news? Make that clear in the pitch.

3. Provide context. Reporters covering a certain conference or trade show are getting battered with emails and may not remember you. Give them a quick recap of news links that show the company’s progress along with how it compares to your key competitors.

4. Don’t just use the conference provided media list. It’s common knowledge that some reporters like to stay off lists, if to hopefully lessen the inbox assault. So, no matter where your event may be, all local media are fair game.

These are just the opinions of one blogger. What tips would you give? Let us know in the comments.

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