DAY FOURTEEN | A SECRET BLOGMAS 2025

“Any article is good. Long as it’s publicity, I think that’s all that matters. I think it’s advancement for my career.”

Brian Wilson

Welcome to A Secret Blogmas 2025!

Today is Day Fourteen and this fourteenth post is all about the beneficial impact there is if you – as a content creator – utilise the press and seek publicity for your content. In this post, I’ll be sharing advice on writing press releases and creating Media Kits as well as talking about being in the press in regard to blogging. Keep reading to find out why and how media appearances can impact the success and popularity of your content and/or your platform…

1. Public Interest & Relevance

• Content creators shape trends — from fashion and slang to politics and social movements.
• Readers are curious about the personalities they follow online. Covering creators taps into that existing interest.
• It keeps media outlets relevant to younger and digitally engaged audiences.

2. Traffic & Engagement

• Stories about well-known or controversial creators often get high clicks, shares, and engagement on social media.
• Publications rely on traffic to sell ads or subscriptions, so creator-focused stories can be profitable.

3. Cultural Commentary

• The press uses creators as a lens to explore bigger cultural, social, or economic trends — like online fame, monetization, identity, or digital ethics.
• For example: “How TikTok stars are changing music marketing” or “The rise of parasocial relationships.”

4. Access & Collaboration

• Featuring creators can bridge audiences — news outlets get exposure to the creator’s followers, while creators gain legitimacy through traditional media.
• Some publications build partnerships or content collaborations with creators to reach new demographics.

5. Human Interest Stories

• Many content creators have unique backstories, entrepreneurial journeys, or personal challenges that make for compelling narratives.
• Media thrives on storytelling — a creator’s success or struggles can humanize the digital world for readers.

6. Shifting Media Landscape

• Traditional journalism increasingly recognizes creators as modern media figures — today’s influencers can have more reach than newspapers or TV hosts.
• Covering them is a way for the press to stay connected to how media itself is evolving.

1. Credibility and Legitimacy

• Press coverage = social proof.
  Being featured by a reputable outlet signals that you’re worth paying attention to.
• It builds trust with brands, audiences, and even platforms — it shows you’re not “just another creator” but someone recognized in the wider media landscape.
• For sponsorships or partnerships, a press feature often helps you stand out in negotiations.

2. Exposure to New Audiences

• Traditional and digital media outlets often have different readerships than your followers.
• A feature introduces you to new audiences who might not have discovered you through algorithms.
• Especially if the story is syndicated, it can bring global visibility.

3. Brand Growth & Career Opportunities

• Press coverage can open doors to brand deals, speaking engagements, collaborations, or agency representation.
• Journalists and PR professionals often check who’s trending in media before reaching out for campaigns or partnerships.
• A strong media presence makes you look more established and marketable.

4. Authority & Thought Leadership

• When you’re quoted or profiled, it positions you as an expert or leader in your niche — whether that’s gaming, fashion, education, or comedy.
• This can lead to being invited for panels, podcasts, events, or consulting work.

5. Search Visibility & Online Reputation

• Articles in reputable outlets often appear high on Google.
• That means if someone searches your name, they see credible press pieces rather than only social media posts — which enhances your professional image.
• It’s a form of digital PR that builds your long-term reputation.

6. Validation & Emotional Impact

• Beyond metrics, being featured in the press can feel like recognition for your work.
• It validates the effort and creativity that often go unseen behind content creation.
• Many creators use this as a milestone to reflect, celebrate, and inspire their community.

7. Networking and Relationship Building

• Media exposure connects you to journalists, editors, and PR professionals, which can lead to future coverage.
• It also attracts like-minded creators and industry figures who might want to collaborate.

1. Validation and Pride

• Followers often feel proud when someone they’ve supported gets recognized publicly.
• Seeing a creator in the press validates that their admiration wasn’t misplaced — it confirms the creator’s impact and success.
• It creates a sense of “I discovered them before everyone else!” — strengthening their emotional investment.

2. Credibility and Trust

• Press features serve as third-party validation.
  When a credible outlet recognizes a creator, it reassures followers that the creator is legitimate, talented, and respected beyond social media.
• It can deepen trust — followers may feel more confident supporting someone who’s viewed as a professional.

3. Deeper Connection Through Storytelling

• Press stories often explore a creator’s journey, challenges, and values — things that may not come across in short-form content.
• Followers get to see the person behind the persona, which builds empathy and a stronger emotional bond.
• It can humanize creators, showing the hard work or vulnerability behind their success.

4. Representation and Inspiration

• When creators (especially from underrepresented backgrounds) are featured in major outlets, followers feel seen and inspired.
• It signals that people like them can achieve recognition, too — creating a ripple effect of empowerment within communities.

5. Insight and Learning

• Articles or interviews often include insights about the creator’s process, mindset, or industry.
• Followers can learn from their journey — whether it’s creative inspiration, business strategy, or personal growth lessons.

6. Stronger Community Identity

• Press coverage can unite followers around a shared moment of excitement.
  They share the article, comment congratulations, and celebrate together — reinforcing a sense of belonging in the community.
• It turns casual fans into long-term supporters.

7. Sense of Growth and Continuity

• When followers see their favourite creators evolving — from online platforms to mainstream recognition — it makes the fandom feel like a shared journey of progress.
• It builds anticipation for what comes next: “If they’re in the press now, where will they go from here?”

1. Find Your Story — Not Just Your Stats

Journalists don’t write “Creator hits 100K followers.” They write stories with human or cultural relevance.
Ask yourself:

• What’s unique about your journey?
• What problem are you solving or trend are you leading?
• How does your story tie into something bigger (e.g., digital entrepreneurship, creativity, social change, or youth culture)?

Example angles:

• “How this gamer turned streaming into a full-time business.”
• “The TikTok educator making finance fun for Gen Z.”
• “Meet the beauty influencer redefining inclusivity online.”

Your story, not your follower count, gets the press interested.

2. Craft a Strong Press Kit (or Media Page)

Think of this as your digital résumé for journalists. Include:

• A short, professional bio (with your niche and mission).
• Key achievements (awards, milestones, brand partnerships).
• High-quality images and logos.
• Links to your platforms and contact info for press inquiries.
• A short press release or pitch-ready paragraph describing recent news or milestones.

Make it easy for journalists to find everything in one place — ideally on your website.

3. Pitch Stories — Don’t Beg for Coverage

Reaching out to journalists works if you do it thoughtfully.

• Research who covers your niche (e.g., culture, digital trends, entrepreneurship).
• Personalize your email: reference their previous work and explain why your story fits.
• Keep your pitch short (3–4 sentences) and focused on a clear news hook — a launch, a milestone, a campaign, or a unique story angle.

4. Build Relationships, Not Transactions

Follow journalists and editors on Twitter/X, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

• Engage genuinely with their work.
• Comment insightfully.
• Be visible as someone adding value to their beat (not just self-promoting).

Over time, they’ll start recognizing your name — which makes future pitches land more naturally.

5. Create Press-Worthy Moments

Give journalists a reason to cover you by creating events or milestones:

• Launch a product, podcast, or creative campaign.
• Partner with a brand in an innovative way.
• Do something newsworthy — a charity initiative, a trend analysis, a creative collaboration.
• Release a data-driven or viral project (these often get picked up quickly).

The press loves momentum — show them you’re moving the culture forward.

6. Leverage Existing Coverage

If you get a small feature or mention, amplify it.

• Share it on social media.
• Add a “Featured In” section to your bio or website.
• Tag the outlet and thank them.

Other journalists often notice creators who already have some coverage — it signals credibility.

7. Work with Publicists or PR Consultants (When Ready)

If you’re growing fast and want consistent coverage, a PR specialist can:

• Craft your story angles.
• Write professional pitches.
• Leverage their media connections for interviews and features.

It’s an investment — but it can speed up your visibility and help you scale your brand image strategically.

8. Stay Consistent and Authentic

Press attention compounds — it’s about showing up consistently with meaningful content, insights, and a clear personal brand.
When you’re authentic and aligned with your message, journalists notice — and audiences respond.

1. Start with a Clear Purpose

Ask: What’s the news?
Journalists need a clear hook — something new, timely, or relevant. Examples:

• Launching a new YouTube series, podcast, or platform
• Hitting a milestone (e.g. 1M subscribers, first live tour, or brand partnership)
• Collaborating with a brand or another creator
• Starting a community initiative or cause campaign
• Expanding into a new medium (music, book, fashion line, etc.)

If it’s not news, find the story angle — e.g. “How I turned short-form videos into a storytelling platform for social change.”

2. Follow the Standard Press Release Format

Professionalism matters — journalists expect a consistent structure:

3. Keep It Newsroom-Ready

• Keep it 1 page max (400–600 words).
• Write in third person (no “I” statements except in quotes).
• Keep tone neutral but engaging — factual first, personality second.
• Use clean formatting: short paragraphs, subheadings, bold names if needed.

4. Include Visual Assets

Attach or link:

• 2–3 high-quality photos (professional headshots or branded imagery)
• A logo or social media banner
• Links to your content (YouTube, TikTok, Spotify, etc.)

If possible, host everything in a press folder (Google Drive, Notion, or your website) for easy journalist access.

5. Distribute It Smartly

• Send directly to journalists, editors, or bloggers who cover your niche (digital culture, lifestyle, entertainment, entrepreneurship, etc.).
• Use a short, personalized email subject line like:

“Story idea: [Creator Name] launches podcast empowering Gen Z entrepreneurs”.

• Paste the press release in the email body (not as an attachment).
• Include 1–2 sentences at the top summarizing why their readers will care.

1. Cover Page

• Your name / creator name / brand logo
• Tagline or short descriptor (e.g. Lifestyle Creator | Empowering Women Through Wellness)
• A professional photo or brand image
• Contact info (email, website, social links)

Pro tip: This page sets the tone. Use your brand colors and fonts to make it instantly recognizable.

2. About You / Your Brand Story

Tell your story in 3–5 sentences:

• Who you are
• What kind of content you create
• Your mission or niche
• What makes you stand out

3. Audience Overview

Show that you understand your followers — this is gold for brands and media alike. Include:

• Follower counts (per platform)
• Engagement rates (likes/comments per post, average views)
• Audience demographics: age, gender, top countries or cities, interests

Use icons, infographics, or pie charts for visual appeal.

If possible, include a brief line like:

“My audience is 85% female, ages 18–30, with strong engagement in lifestyle and personal development content.”

4. Analytics Snapshot

• Average video views / reach
• Monthly impressions or story views
• Growth rate (if impressive)
• Any notable viral content metrics

Pro tip: Use screenshots from Instagram/TikTok Insights or YouTube Analytics for authenticity.

5. Collaboration Opportunities

List how people can work with you:

• Sponsored posts / videos
• Brand ambassadorships
• Product reviews / unboxings
• Speaking or hosting
• Podcast appearances
• Content creation for brands

Include a few examples of previous collaborations (logos or images if possible).

Example: Partnered with Nike Women on the “Move Freely” campaign (Instagram Reels + YouTube integration).

6. Testimonials or Press Features

Add credibility with:

• Quotes from brands or collaborators
• Logos of media outlets or features (“As seen in…”)
• Awards or nominations if relevant

“Working with Maya was seamless — she delivered creative, on-brand content that drove strong engagement.” – Lululemon Marketing Team

7. Contact Information

End with a clear, easy-to-find contact section:

• Email (preferably a professional domain, not Gmail if possible)
• Website
• Social links
• Optional: QR code linking to your full portfolio or content gallery

3. Design Tips

• Keep it clean, visual, and on-brand — 2–5 pages max (PDF format is best).
• Use consistent fonts, colors, and imagery from your content aesthetic.
• Canva, Notion, or Adobe Express are perfect for designing media kits quickly.
• Include white space — make it readable, not cluttered.
• Optimize for mobile + desktop viewing.

4. Pro Tips

✅ Update your media kit every 3–6 months with fresh stats.
✅ Add it as a downloadable link in your email signature or Linktr.ee.
✅ Save two versions:

• Full version (for brands & PR teams)
• Short version (1-page summary for quick outreach)

5. Optional: Include Rates (Carefully)

If you’re ready to disclose pricing, add a final “Rate Card” page — or keep it separate and say:

“Rates available upon request.”
This keeps flexibility for negotiation.

1. Hero Section / Introduction

A short overview of who you are and why you matter.
Keep it clean, confident, and factual.

Include:

• A professional headshot or banner
• Optional tagline: “As featured in...” + outlet logos

2. Press Features / Media Mentions

Showcase your press coverage in a visually appealing grid or list.
Include:

• Publication logo
• Headline or quote
• Date and outlet
• Link to the full article or interview

3. Media Bio (Short & Long Versions)

Journalists often need quick access to your official bio for quoting or introductions.
Include:

• Short bio (50–100 words) — for quick references or captions
• Full bio (150–250 words) — with your background, mission, and notable achievements

4. Approved Photos & Brand Assets

Offer a press-friendly download section with:

• High-resolution photos (headshots, lifestyle shots, logos)
• Image usage guidelines (if needed)
• Optional: branded color palette or logo variations

5. Notable Achievements / Highlights

Include a clean list or infographic-style section for:

• Awards, nominations, recognitions
• Speaking engagements, panels, or events
• Major brand collaborations or campaigns
• Milestones (e.g., “Reached 1M followers,” “Podcast in top 5% globally”)

6. Audience & Platform Overview (Optional)

This helps journalists and brands understand your reach.
Include:

• Total audience count
• Platform breakdown
• Demographic snapshot (age, location, interests)
• Engagement rate (if notable)

7. Contact Information (Press-Specific)

Always have a clear, visible media contact.
Use a dedicated address if possible

Optional: Embed a short contact form for journalists to request interviews or assets.

8. Downloadable Press Kit (Media Kit)

Include a link to download your PDF media kit, summarizing:

• Bio & stats
• Audience data
• Brand partnerships
• Collaboration options
• Testimonials

Use a simple CTA button:

[⬇️ Download Full Media Kit (PDF)]

9. Optional Additions

Depending on your goals:

• Speaking topics / media quotes — helpful for podcasts or panels
• Press release archive — if you issue regular announcements
• Social proof — embedded tweets, creator shout-outs, or fan stories