What do PRs really think of travel writers? After posting my 10 Tips for PRs, I decided it was only fair to give the PR industry a right of reply. Here, two well-known travel PRs launch a scathing attack on travel journalists. Understandably, they have asked to remain anonymous.
1. When we pitch an idea to you, please just say yes or no, or that you are considering it. We don’t mind if it is a no, it allows us to move on. Silence leaves us nowhere.
2. On group press trips, some journalists develop a childlike inability to think or do anything for themselves. Try to act like an adult, and don’t forget your passport.
3. Don’t listen to us talk through a lengthy pitch then ask for it in email form. Didn’t you take notes?
4. Don't ignore every email we send you with work content, then reply immediately to accept an offer of tickets to the rugby, football or opera.
5. Please don't say yes to an exclusive story and then only give it two lines of coverage. If you can't run a decent-sized piece, say so.
6. When you want information, give us a clear brief. Templates and formats are easy to work to, and mean you don't have to keep coming back for extra bits of information.
7. When you're being hosted on a group press trip, with complimentary flights, accommodation, food and drinks, try surprising the PR by buying a round of drinks. It probably won't break the bank but it will make the PR feel genuinely appreciated.
8. If you don't want us to ask if you've received an email, reply to it. Just a “no thanks” will do, and we will stop pestering you. (And don’t complain that you get too many emails when you’ve told us you prefer emails to phone calls.)
9. If you accept an invitation to an event please try to turn up. We get in terrible trouble with clients when you don’t show.
10. Please try to be polite. We know you're busy. So are we.
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Or read the original post, 10 Tips for PRs.
Take time to watch 'How to loose friends and alieante people', publicist Eleanor Johnson is the sort of PR I would love to do, at least for a day! And whilst you all have great suggestions - how do you deal with journalists who have been on press trips and have not produced? Or better still those that accept the press trip and the evening before flight call in sick (Anita dearest, you are not alone)! Mark, appreciate that is not your style, accepting press trips on false pretences or phoning in a sickie hours before a flight....but that is why becoming an Eleanor Johnson is soooo appealing!