How to Use Your Press Card
by MaryAnn Diorio, Ph.DMembership in a writer’s organization often entitles you to a press card. A press card is a professional tool that gains you entry to a major event in order to write about it. If you have a press card, the following information will help you to use it to maximum advantage in your writing career.
BEFORE THE EVENT
At least a month before the event, call the sponsoring organization. Ask the person in charge about parking and seating arrangements for members of the press. Ask when and where you need to show your press card. Some events require you to present your press card in advance; others permit you to present your card at the door. Normally, once you show your card, you will be given a press badge.
The speakers at major events are usually well-known in their fields. If possible, arrange beforehand to interview them. Your interview can serve as a newspaper feature story for a newspaper, a profile in a professional or trade magazine, or both. To arrange an interview, call the speaker’s public relations manager. Tell him or her that you are a member of the press and that you would like to arrange an interview.
CONDUCTING THE INTERVIEW
Be well-prepared for the interview. Before the interview, find out as much as you can about the person. Prepare a list of thoughtful questions. Make sure that all of your equipment is in good working order: tape recorders, cameras, laptops, pens, etc. Bring extra batteries, film, and pens as well as a notebook.
JUST DO IT!
Now that you’re armed with this information, use your press card to its full advantage. You may be pleasantly surprised that it has become a ticket not only to a sale but also to a lot of writing fun.
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© 2000 by MaryAnn L. Diorio, Ph.D. All rights reserved. Copies of this article may be made for personal use only. Please include copyright information. Those wishing to publish this article must first request written permission from the author. A minimum fee of $25 will be charged for all reprints.
Dr. Mary Ann Diorio is a popular public speaker, author, and life coach. She speaks on a variety of topics, including writing and life management issues. To book Dr. Diorio, visit her website at www.maryanndiorio.com or at www.CelebrationCoaching.com.