The Power Publicist

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Recently, we discussed why surveys and polls are a great way to get publicity.

Now here’s how to create a survey that the media will love.

1. Have plans for the results. In order to benefit from conducting a survey or poll, you have to plan in advance what you want to do with the results. Realize that while some responses may support what you intend to, they won’t always go your way. The best thing to do is to select a survey topic that can be interpreted as a newsworthy fresh angle no matter the outcome.
2. Cover controversy. You should always tie your area of expertise in with current headlines, particularly with a topic of controversy. Take a poll concerning how Americans feel about a heated topic and offer your own interpretation and explanation of the results. For example, relationship expert can capitalize on the recent Tiger Woods scandal and create a survey on what people think he should be doing to help his relationship.
3. Prove them wrong. When faced with survey or polling results opposite of what you had expected, chances are they are the opposite of what most people expected as well. When you prove a known fact or popular belief wrong, it generates curiosity and interest, therefore readers are more likely to be intrigued to read on. I helped a client conduct a survey of area brides. It turned out that most of the brides surveyed were ditching the traditional June wedding for fall dates. The results weren’t expected, but it made for great headlines in the media.
4. Start things off. Surveys and polls help to make your writing much more appealing. Even if you don’t want your release to revolve around statistics, you can add a little zest by starting it off with a face or two. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of a hypo-allergenic pillow, you can start things off by offering statistics of Americans with allergies or Americans who sleep restlessly. This way, you clearly and strongly demonstrate the commonality of this problem in America and that will likely intrigue Americans to read on.
5. Create visual appeal. One thing that editors love is the visual that poll and survey results can offer. Depending on the type of survey or poll, use either a graph or chart if possible to enhance the presentation of the article. This will entice both editors and readers.

Looking to create a theme for your survey as part of a publicity campaign? Let Shannon help with a 30-minute Publicity Breakthrough session. Most people walk away with at least 6 months worth of PR ideas. Book yours today at http://www.publicitybreakthrough.com

I’ll be sharing more survey tips next time! So stay tuned.

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