:: Photo Credit ::
As Toni mentioned on the Savvy Blogging Facebook wall last week, I have created a database of sort and it has nothing to do with coupons either!
In 2009, I was walking through Disney World with Maria Bailey (who will be a teacher at the 2011 Summit!). She is an amazing mentor and personal friend. Amongst all of the advice she was giving out freely, she threw this little gem my way: create a database of PR contacts.
I finally got around to creating the list this year and it’s amazing at what it has done for my own personal productivity. There have been campaign ideas I have thought of and I quickly scan the list and contact the appropriate brand for interest. I have also used my list to share new developments with my own site amongst other businesses I am involved in.
The information on my spreadsheet (in google docs – it’s FREE!) is really simple and includes the following:
- Brand
- Contact Name
- Contact Position
- Agency
- Phone
- Mailing Address
- Notes
Whenever I receive a pitch in my inbox, I complete the information quickly. I respond back to the contact accordingly and thank them for reaching out. A quick note to share on how I use the notes column. I include mentions of various campaigns I have worked on with links back to blog posts if applicable. What other information would you foresee including in the notes section?
As I continue to expand the Savings Lifestyle Network, this list will become even more imperative as I forge more relationships and partnerships. There is no way me or my team will be able to remember each contact we make at various events. I definitely see this helping me continue to grow our brand.
Here’s what this list is NOT meant to do:
Spam
We loathe it and I’m sure no one else appreciates it. Use your list in an email communication wisely. Consider sending an initial email blast notifying them that they are on your list for communication regarding XYZ. Give them the option to opt in at that time for future communication.
Replace Relationships
Please remember, it’s not about numbers. A few solid relationships are far greater than an infinite number of PR contacts. However, having the contact information for brands you wouldn’t necessary think to pitch can turn into a meaningful relationship too. Never discount the potential of a relationship either.
Do you have a similar list? How do you utilize it to help your business?
Andrea Deckard publishes Savings Lifestyle, a site to help you save on what you need so you can spend more on what you want. She is also a founding member of Savvy Blogging.net and a partner in My Coupon Database, a resource for bloggers.
