How to Get Publicity for Private Events

Press releases draw attention to private events.

Publicity for private events is important because it can boost awareness and interest. You can get publicity in a variety of ways to reach a large number of people. Even without a publicity agency, you can get publicity with a little planning and preparation.

Things You'll Need

• Word-processing Software
• Computer

Instructions

1. Create press releases. They should provide basic information about the event's location, time and purpose. Add information on the company or person creating the event as well. If your writing skills aren't up to par, get a professional writer to write the releases.

2. Contact members of the media. Interviews with newspaper reporters and magazine writers raise awareness of private events. Each magazine and newspaper appeals to a different audience, so target those that are the most relevant to your event. Trade magazines target people in specific industries and are good for publicizing relevant events, according to Platform Online Magazine.

3. Use social media. Raise awareness for your event by putting details on Twitter, Facebook and other social media sites. Include details like the time, location and updates on the event. Your Twitter and Facebook messages may be repeated by other users if they are especially interesting. This will spread the word to indirect contacts in your network.

4. Speak at related events beforehand so you can mention your own upcoming event. For example, if your event is a fundraiser for a nonprofit, speak at other fundraisers. Conferences and panels are common, so find out which ones are related to your event and need speakers. Each event's application process is different, so check the process carefully.

5. Remind people about the event. "6 Steps to Free Publicity" recommends sending reminders to people you've previously contacted. The reminders are great ways to help interested people remember the event. Invitations or social media messages are also good ways to communicate any changes to the event.

Tips & Warnings

• Proofread all your written material so it contains consistent information.

References

• Berklee College of Music; PR: Who Needs It? (You Do!); Brian Coleman
• Inc.; How to Write a Press Release; Tim Donnelly; September 3, 2010
• Platform Online Magazine; The Value of Trade Publications in PR; Madeline Reeves
• Mashable; How To: Use Social Media to Enhance Your Event; Meaghan Edelstein; November 21, 2010
• Extreme Entrepreneurship Tour: Apply to be a Speaker
• "6 Steps to Free Publicity"; Marcia Yudkin ; 2008

Resources

• PRLog: How to Write a Press Release?
• Publicity Club of Chicago: Media Meanderings: Social Media; David Brimm; August 25, 2010
• NewsMaker; Top Ten Tips PR Advice: How to Conduct a Successful Media Campaign