Making Headlines: Tips for Getting Your Girl Scout Events Featured in the News Getting your events published in local media can help you reach a wider audience and generate more buzz around your event. Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting coverage: Identify relevant media outlets | Research local newspapers, magazines, radio stations, TV channels, and online platforms covering events and activities in your area. Understand their target audience and the types of events they usually cover. Look at their recent articles or broadcasts to see if they have covered similar topics in the past. Make sure that your story aligns with their editorial style and core interests. Identifying journalists or reporters who regularly cover similar stories is also helpful. For example, if your story is related to technology, you might want to target tech-focused media outlets or publications. Look for regional newspapers or TV channels if it's a local event. Craft a compelling press release | Write a concise and engaging press release highlighting your event's key details, such as the date, time, location, purpose, and any special guests or attractions. Include quotes from organizers or participants to add a human touch. Follow standard press release formatting and include contact information for media inquiries. Keep your press release informative and newsworthy, focusing on what makes your event interesting or important to the community. Aim for a one-page press release if possible, ensuring that all essential information is included. Start with a Strong Headline | The headline is the first thing journalists and readers will see, so it needs to be attention-grabbing and concise. For example: Sweet Success Ahead: Girl Scout Cookie Season Kicks Off with Irresistible Delights and Empowered Young Entrepreneurs! Greening Our Community: Girl Scouts Take Root in a Tree-Planting Community Service Project Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators: Girl Scouts Step Up at Local STEM Event to Explore Science and Technology
Early in your press release, make sure you have included key details about the event, such as the theme, date, and location. An easy way to check if you’ve included all the relevant details is to check for the 5 W's—make sure the opening paragraph answers the essential questions: Who, What, When, Where, and Why. This provides the necessary context for the event and entices the reader to continue reading. Include relevant information about the purpose of the event and its significance for the community. Highlight Unique Selling Points | Emphasize what makes the Girl Scout event special and different from others. Whether it's a notable guest speaker, a community initiative, or an exciting activity, showcasing these unique selling points will make the press release more compelling. Do your best to bring the message back to the impact of Girl Scouts and the difference Girl Scouts make in your community. Incorporate Quotes | Including quotes from key individuals involved in the event, such as Girl Scout leaders, Girl Scout participants, Girl Scout staff, or community leaders, adds a human touch and credibility to the press release. Quotes can help convey the enthusiasm and importance of the event.