The ‘Meet the Media’ event at the Bonding Warehouse had been organised by York PR and communications experts Linda Harrison and Jo Leatham.
The speed networking event at Patch featured a varied range of businesses, mostly small traders.
Owners used the event to showcase their business, share news, pitch stories and make meaningful connections with six of the region’s leading journalists.
They included editors from the York Press, Yorkshire Post, Yorkshire Business Insider, Yorkshire Living, a freelance journalist who writes for national newspapers and magazines, and a community reporter from BBC Radio York.
RECOMMENDED READING:
The journalists shared their expert advice and divulged some top tips about generating press coverage.
Tips included researching the publication and the relevant journalist, supplying high quality images to go with the story, having a strong headline to grab attention, and keeping pitches brief, concentrating on key points.
Well-known photographer Olivia Brabbs also took pictures of the morning.
Darren Greenwood of the York Press (Image: Supplied)
Olivia said: “It was a really positive event and, for me, it was particularly fascinating to hear first-hand from the journalists about the impact professional photography has on getting stories noticed and achieving success with PR.”
Matthew Rhodes, who is gearing up to launch a family-led clothing business, called it invaluable to be able to meet so many journalists in one place.
Matthew said: “We were also able to network with amazing local creatives, share our story and learn from others – something we hope to be able to repeat in the future.”
Interior designer Kim Heslip from Nest and Flourish Interiors, said: ““Meet the Media was amazing. I met lots of journalists, I received lots of tips about how to pitch stories about my business to them, and I’ve had lots of interest from them about my business – so look out for stories about my business in the local press soon!”
PR expert Karen McMillan said: “I came away with valuable tips, useful contacts, and a much clearer idea of what makes a compelling story. Plus, it was a brilliant chance to meet other local businesses and entrepreneurs.”
Linda Harrison, a former regional and national newspaper journalist who now works in PR and created the event with Jo Leatham said many businesses have great stories to tell but they need to know more on getting them out.
Already businesses are gaining coverage from attending the event, including in the York Press.
Linda added: “PR isn’t just for large companies. If you run a small business, getting featured in the media is an excellent way of making your business more visible, and attracting new customers and clients.”
Co-organiser Jo Leatham, who has worked in PR for more than 30 years, added: “It was a joy to see such energy, drive and enthusiasm in the room as business owners networked with the journalists.
“The feedback so far has been beyond our expectations, and we can’t wait to see all the news unfold over the coming months.”
A second Meet the Media event is planned for June. To be added to the waiting list or for further details, please email Linda: linda@lindaharrison.co.uk or : pr@joleatham.co.uk
