Page 168 - 597 Business Ideas You can Start from Home - doing what you LOVE! (Beginner Internet Marketing Series)

1 60 Your Idea, Inc.

Once you have all the materials for your press kit together,
assemble twenty-five to thirty. Initially, these kits will be sent to
both buyers and editors, and you want to get a decent number out.
You want to distribute these kits to anyone who needs one, so have
stock on hand at all times. It's a real time-saver!

Build a Database of Magazine Editors

If you decide to do your own publicity, start a database of maga­
zine editors, newspaper editors, and local television contacts. The
easiest method for magazines is to buy an issue (as opposed to going
to the website) and get the information from the magazine's "mast­
head" in the front of the magazine. This lists all the editors and the
magazine's mailing address and phone number. Contact the main
phone number and confirm that the editor you want is still the cor­
rect editor.

Monthly magazines often go to press much earlier than
might expect. Editors will need story ideas four to six
before the issue hits newsstands. Ask editors about

their specific le.d time. and keep that information handy.
Think far .head about promotional opportunities. Don't wait
until November to send out i nformation on your holiday gift
promotions. Th. November issue is being put together i n
spring/lum mer, when your thoughts are not on Christmas
yet Have a calendar where you can remind yourself of edito­
rial deadlines.

Take the time to understand the magazine's audience and con­
tent and make sure you can pitch your product with a hook that
will pique the interest of an editor. Be persistent! Keep the mailings
going to these editors with a fresh story every eight weeks or so.
The editorial departments of many magazines are located in New
York City, so if you have a chance to go there at some point, you