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PROMOTING YOUR SERVICES & EVENTS

KSU's student media has many no-cost or low cost solutions to your publicity challenges.

Q&A

1. We're doing something we would like covered in the campus newspaper. How do we get a story in The Sentinel?

Like any newspaper, there is no way to guarantee coverage - but there are ways to better your chances. Remember that the students are running the paper and appreciate being asked directly rather than going through their advisor. We always recommend the "shotgun" method - use as many of these approaches as you feel comfortable:

A.) Here's the best way to get coverage: If you have not yet appointed a PR or media person for your group, do so. Send out two (2) releases for every event or activity you wish coverage of. The first release, called an 'advance,' should go out 10 days to 2 weeks BEFORE the event. The second should go out after the event - let us know how successful it was! Send us photos if you can. Here's our PRESS RELEASE you can use.

- Or use The Sentinel Online Press Release.

B.) Advertising, unlike editorial, is guaranteed, and all departments get a reduced rate. Download and print our current Rate Card.

C.) The Features section sometimes publishes briefs or shorts on campus events. You may e-mail the Campus Life editor with your info. You can also do this online at www.ksusentinel.com

D.) E-mail is always read by the staff. You can send a press release to the entire editorial board by sending it to sentinel@ksumedia.com

E.) A phone call is the next best thing to a personal visit. The newspaper's number is 770-423-6278. Depending on your issue, activity or event, ask for the Features, News, or Viewpoints (opinion, commentary) editors. Keep in mind that this is a student office - you may have to leave a message.

F.) If you can catch them in their office, that's a great way. The offices are in the Student Center, Room 277. Just remember that they are students like you - busy!

G.) Don't forget KSU's student feature magazine, Talon! You can call them at 770-423-6277.

If you need further assistance, contact the media advisor at 770-499-3083 or by email. Please keep in mind that the advisor may not dictate coverage.

2. I know you can't guarantee coverage - but what can we do to better our chances?

• Give the publication advance notice - at least a week, more if possible.
• Talk to the staff in person. And make sure your talking to the right person - don't give a story idea to an ad rep - or an ad to a reporter!
• Don't talk down to the students or tell them what they should do.
• If it's after the event, send the publication photos and information.

3. Can I write the story myself ?

Not if you are part of the activity or event - that would be a conflict of interest. But you can send us a press release. I f you have not yet appointed a PR or media person for your group, do so. Send out two (2) releases for every event or activity you wish coverage of. The first release, called an 'advance,' should go out 10 days to 2 weeks BEFORE the event. The second should go out after the event - let us know how successful it was! Send us photos if you can.

Here's our PRESS RELEASE you can use. - Or use The Sentinel Online Press Release.

Here's more information on news releases and publicity:

• http://www.publicityinsider.com/release.asp
• http://www.free-press-release-center.info/sample-press-release.html

4. We REALLY need to get this in the paper. We're willing to advertise. What can you do for us?

FREE ADS: Student groups and KSU offices receive one free ad per semester! Follow this link for more information.

PAID ADS: Offices and departments at KSU pay a lower rate (our University Affiliated Rate), and student groups are the lowest. Local advertisers pay $6.50 per column inch, but our University Affiliated rate is only $4.60 pci and groups pay only $3.10 pci. What does that mean? Download our Rate Card and give us a call at 770-423-6470.

5. If we create the ad ourselves will you give us a discount?

Sorry, department and student group ads are already heavily discounted - but we will extend your deadline.

6. We're a not a student group yet - we're just trying to get started. Help!

We'll give you a free ad - just follow our guidelines - contact the adviser at 770-499-3083. And maybe your group is newsworthy. Send us The Sentinel Online Press Release.

OWL Radio would be happy to promote your event:

• Online PSA Form
• Remote Broadcast Request
• Promotions & Sponsorship Packet

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Even more publicity resources:

Creative Publicity :: Wacky Promotions

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