Why Media Wants to Hear from You
Do You Have What it Takes to be a Financial Resource?
So, you want to become a source for media, but you don’t know if you have what it takes? You may be surprised to learn that journalists are always looking for sources; they are necessary for the articles they write. This is especially true in more complex industries, like the financial sector.
Unless the media is writing an opinion piece, they need sources to provide information that tells more than one side of a story. Therefore, it is important for them to cultivate reliable, knowledgeable and truthful sources that have a great deal to say on a particular subject. So, the bottom line is that journalists talk to sources because they have to in order to write an informative, factual article.
Why will the media talk to you specifically?
There are many different reasons why the media talks to a particular source. Often times, professionals have experience, insight and information that the media needs. Unfortunately, many people think they don’t have unique enough ideas worth saying and do not realize the value they can add.
Here are a few reasons the media’s interest may be piqued enough to talk with you. And, if you can find yourself depicted in one or more of these categories, you may have a chance to get featured as a financial professional in the news.
You are contrarian
The definition of a contrarian is a person who opposes or rejects popular opinion. Media really likes it when they find a person who offers a different side of a topic, especially a topic that is getting a lot of attention, as it will give them a new angle to cover. Also, by talking with someone who has a different take on a hot topic, the media’s story could get more attention and trust me; they know this and are always looking for these types of people.
You recognize trends
Have you noticed that clients have suddenly come to you with the same concerns? Has something changed? Maybe there is a new law and your clients are getting nervous? If you can spot a trend before others, (and can provide examples to back it up), the media may be interested in helping others address these new concerns.
You are a thought leader
Do people in your industry follow what you say? Are they looking to you to see what you think? If so, the media will definitely be interested in speaking with you. If your peers value your opinion, so will other investors.
You are a trailblazer
Have you changed the way something is done in your industry? Are you trailblazing a path, doing it better than anyone before you? Again, you will need to offer some proof, but this can help you stand out. Journalists are often looking for a new ideas or angles; if you are on a unique journey, it can lead the media to an interesting story.
You have a proven track record
Media likes using sources that understand the world they live in and can get their point across in a short amount of time. The only way they know this, especially with broadcast, is if you have done it before. Have you been a source for your local media for a while talking about the financial industry? If so, you have a proven track record, and often times, the national media relies on this to determine if you will be a good source. Journalists are often against tight deadlines if they know you can deliver useful information clearly and quickly they will likely reach out to you again and again.
Remember, there is usually no shortage of people who want to be in the media, so it may as well be you rather than one of your competitors. If you need guidance in connecting your financial expertise with the media, contact AdvisorPR at (866) 888-5333 or email us at Info@advisorpr.com.
