IEEE Region 3 Communications Committee Public Information Guide - Local Media

USE LOCAL MEDIA TO ADVERTISE YOUR MEETINGS
(and it's free !!!)

It's easy to publicize your local section or chapter meetings. Many local newspapers and broadcast stations offer a free listing for meetings. Just follow these three easy steps and help increase your attendance !!!

1. Check out your local newspapers and broadcast stations to determine if they offer free space for promoting meetings. Newspapers are great for listing meetings, and TV stations often have a community bulletin board. Contact these resources by telephone.

Ask these questions:

• Who do I send the information to?
  
• How far in advance of the meeting should I send the information?
  
• Is it best to send a FAX, or is e-mail preferred?
• If e-mail is preferred, most newspapers and broadcast stations DO NOT open attachments.

  And finally, be sure to thank them "in advance" for their help!!!

2. Check out the free IEEE Publicity Guide regarding the preparation of a news release about your meeting. You can get a hard copy, or download it at: http://www.ieee.org/publicityguide Keep the news release simple, short and focused. Avoid abbreviations and complicated technical terms. Be sure to include your name and telephone number for follow up information. An answering machine is great.

3. Send the news release by FAX or e-mail (as appropriate). Be sure to return any telephone calls promptly.

That's it--and it's so simple to publicize your meetings "free" and help increase attendance.

David Bower
Region 3 Public Information Chair
d.bower@ieee.org