Written by Brittany Sierra
Gaining press attention can support brand growth, improve organic search results and generate sales, yes we often We often think of publicity as the goal, when in fact it is just the beginning. Brands can further optimize their media placement results by properly preparing a plan for what to do after a product is featured. With eyes, clicks and follows primed for action, it’s important to take advantage of that momentum.
A post-press checklist will help to ensure that all relevant departments are on call to mobilize when press hits come in. Here are 5 things that should absolutely be part of this process.
A common struggle with newer brands that can totally kill PR efforts is not being able to keep up with the demand generated by a press hit. If you are lucky enough to have your product featured in a major publication or website, make sure you are able to deliver on orders. Address this potential issue before landing press so that fulfillment isn’t an issue.
Social media is a major influence when it comes to buying decisions. Before you start press outreach, make sure that each of your social platforms reflects the current brand direction. Don’t be afraid to delete pictures and posts that no longer represent your brand. Remember, followers want to see your products and get an inside look at your business. Always ask yourself, “will my audience find this interesting, useful or helpful?” before you post.
Once that press hit comes in, make sure to promote it across all your channels, properly tagging the publication and writer in your copy. Editors appreciate this small act of gratitude as it helps to get their work in front of more people.
The attention from being highlighted in a press piece can drive a significant amount of traffic to a brand website. As such, you want to ensure that there is continuity from the media coverage to the site. For example, if you know that Vogue is about to feature your white denim in their December issue, make sure those jeans are front and center on the homepage. You want to make sure that when people visit your site, it looks good and that you’ve made it easy for potential customers to buy. Some ways to ensure that your website is prepped and ready are:
In addition to making it easy for people to purchase the products they are looking for, make sure to do the following:
Emerging brands often think that shoppable pages are most important and neglect building out an about page that truly explains the brand vision and story. However, the about page is often the most viewed page on a website. Prospective customers want to know more about a brand (values, personality, key players) before they make a purchase. A strong about page builds credibility and trust.
While you are making these updates, do a quick review of your entire site. Check for broken links or outdated information. Here are some additional ways you can prep your site to consistently turn website traffic into sales.
Not everyone who visits your website from a press hit is going to buy immediately. It doesn’t mean your press efforts are worthless. Instead of focusing on immediate sales, focus on acquiring that customer through your email list. Entice new site visitors to subscribe through a first-time buyer discount code, exclusive access to new collections, free shipping or gift with purchase.
Once that press hit comes in, make sure to promote it across all your channels, properly tagging the publication and writer in your copy. Editors appreciate this small act of gratitude as it helps to get their work in front of more people. Getting published in a major publication or online platform is amazing, but media and press attention is only half the battle. The other half is taking advantage of that placement and extending its value in as many different ways as you can.
