Do you ever wonder why some cafes and restaurants are constantly in the news? Stories regularly appear in the local paper about their food, events and award-winning staff. Their chef may even be heard on local radio and seen on TV. What’s the secret? To help us understand how the media works, Ken Burgin interviewed public relations expert Jules Brooke about the type of stories that will create interest, how to prepare a Media Release, where to send it and how to use the publicity that follows.

We discussed the value of sharing ‘educational’ content, how to build your own profile, and a wide range of story ideas that will appeal to busy journalists. We also talked about the style and format of photos needed by the media, and when to engage a professional photographer. To help small businesses do their own public relations, Jules has developed the HandleYourOwnPR website, with expert writing and story advice, plus local Australian media lists. You can start sending media releases to your local journalists this week!