Prognosis is Good For Health VNRs
Health-related video news releases have the best shot at airtime, according to the latest survey by a company that specializes in creating VNRs, Duffey Communications of Atlanta. Among the journalists polled in the survey of 502 media outlets nationwide:
- 73% said they are interested in receiving a weekly, non-biased health VNR;
- 71% of TV stations cover health issues daily;
- More than 75% of TV stations have a regular science/health segment
The top qualities reporters/producers said they look for in VNRs is:
- Timeliness
- Quality footage and information
- Strong community interest
- A local angle
- A reliable source
- Other characteristics: strong sound bytes, brief and focused topic, no special commercial interests, use of experts, local contact information, interesting footage. The study also found that the use of b-roll, natural and background sound and split-track audio were highly desirable by major TV stations. (Denise Kitchel/Holly Humphrey, Duffey, 404/266-2600)
More than 25,000 Journalists Listed in Online Directory
CorporateNEWS recently launched an online media directory and e-mail distribution system. Located at http://www.corporatenews.com, it allows clients to reach the media with their corporate messages. The media directory has more than 25,000 news, feature and trade editors with title, phone number and address.
Customers who use the service will also have access to the media's e-mail addresses. Fee is $1,750. (Doug Ross at 281/398-5398 or at [email protected])
Demographically Aware? Guide Provides Plethora of Stats
Do your demographics research before you pitch with the 1999 County and City Extra: Annual Metro, City and County Data Book. The latest guide contains statistics on economics, crime, employment and housing for every state, county, metropolitan area and congressional district. It's also a good source of basic information about household incomes, poverty rates, population characteristics, birth and death rates. Much of the data is provided by the Census Bureau so you'll be armed with all the official information. (Greg Zajac at 800/865-3457)
Source: PR NEWS Media HotSheet, http://www.prandmarketing.com; 888/707-5814