For PRs

Before emailing me or phoning me (0425 736 993), please read this.

I’m becoming overwhelmed with enquiries from PRs regarding bloggers. This Q&A is a work in progress made in the time I can snatch time between journalism and social media projects.

Q: I’ve seen that food bloggers have held various events how does this work?

A: Usually that is just us socialising at BBQs or restaurants that we have chosen. They aren’t commercial affairs. But food bloggers have attended events such the launch of a new restaurant at Crown, which was very happy with the results. Don’t forget the social media world is much wider than just bloggers.

Q: Would I be interested in our event?

A: Quite possibly but if you’ve read this blog you’ll also know I’m a journalist. I am invited to lots of events many of which I don’t have the time to attend. My agenda is to step outside the PR sphere in this blog unlike the mainstream media which can be led by PR.

As a journalist I may be more interested if there is a story I can sell. But I wouldn’t like the fact that I attend an event to displace another blogger.

Q: What is the best day of the week for an event?

A: As a rule I attend few events over weekends. I’d suggest earlier in the week, in the evening.

Q: Who should I invite?

It all depends on the client. Many bloggers are anti-mass produced packaged goods, some are meat-only. Others are vegetarian, vegan or have food allergies. You need to invest some time reading blogs to understand who the writer are and what their interests are and there are about 80 in Melbourne and 650 across the country.

Q: How should I invite them?

Do your research and be polite. I would suggest giving the option to opt out if they aren’t interested in emails from PRs. Even better you could set up a webform where if they wish they can register what they are interested in.

Q: What response will I get?

A: You have to remember most bloggers are real people and not journalists. They probably don’t know who you are. In fact some will probably email me to ask who you are.

Q: What else do I need to know?

The only really way to understand how to interact with social media is to immerse yourself in it. I am available to give presentations which I will research and target to your particular needs from $395. I also am available to help write simple and practical social media plans that bring real results.

Q: Who else have you done this for?

One of my first happy clients that I have written a plan for is Daylesford and Hepburn Springs Mineral Water Co. It has resulted in real sales results.