Hey there… today we're diving into a realm of media that often goes unnoticed - trade publications for media exposure.
When we talk about "the media," our minds may typically wander to big names like The New York Times, Oprah Winfrey, Good Morning America, or Huffington Post. Sure, these may be the dream platforms for many aspiring media stars.
But there's a hidden treasure trove of media outlets that seldom get the attention they deserve. I'm here to shed some light on why you should be paying attention to trade publications, even if their names don't ring a bell.
What Are Trade Publications?
First things first, let's clarify what trade publications are. These are typically print magazines designed for a specific industry. Unlike The New York Times or Huffington Post, they might not have that household name recognition.
But they offer something invaluable - a highly targeted audience. If you're not part of a specific industry, you probably haven't heard of them. For instance, if you're not in the fitness industry, titles like "American Fitness" or "Fitness Trainer Magazine" might not be on your radar.
However, if you're a coach helping fitness enthusiasts transition from being gym employees to high-paid personal health coaches, these obscure publications are precisely where you should be looking.
While they may not be as glamorous as landing a spot on the Today Show, they have unique advantages.
Let's take a closer look at some of these advantages:
1. Direct Access to Your Ideal Audience:
Trade publications put you directly in front of your ideal audience. Plus, they're sparing you the pain of wading through a broad, disinterested crowd.
2. Showcase Your Expertise:
They provide those all-important "clips" that can show off your expertise to larger outlets. Think of them as your stepping stones to the bigger stage.
3. Ample Space to Share Your Message:
Trade publications often offer a lot more space to articulate your message compared to mainstream media.
One significant perk is that these publications receive far fewer pitches compared to the giants. Consequently, getting featured in a trade publication tends to be much easier than securing a spot on national television.
So, if you're eager to pitch your message effectively, here's a starting point:
How To Pitch Your Message To A Trade Magazine
Do Your Homework:
Start by reading a few issues of the trade publication you're eyeing. Honestly, this is a no-brainer, but knowing your market is essential. Study the types of stories they typically cover.
What unique angle can you bring to your message that hasn't been overdone?
Why are you the perfect person to be featured?
If you can answer these questions in your pitch, they'll be eager to get you on board.Personalise Your Pitch:
Resist the temptation to send out a generic email to multiple publications simultaneously. Take the time to personalise your message for each publication and show that you're familiar with their work.
The effort you put into crafting a tailored pitch will significantly increase your chances of getting a callback.
The beauty of small trade publications for media exposure lies in their extensive reach. Not only will you place yourself in front of your ideal client, but they also serve as a crucial stepping stone to larger, national media outlets.
Think of it as a progression where you build your reputation gradually, eventually reaching the coveted platforms.
Now that you understand the significance of trade publications, it's time to explore why you should be focusing on these hidden gems of the media world.
1. Unearthed Opportunities for Experts
Trade publications are absolute treasure chests of opportunities for experts in specific industries.
Imagine you are a marketing consultant specialising in the real estate sector. By getting featured in a publication that caters specifically to real estate professionals, you tap into a goldmine of potential clients.
These readers are not casually flipping through pages; they are actively seeking information to excel in their field. This creates a perfect environment for you to showcase your expertise and attract clients who are already interested in your services.
2. Build Credibility and Authority
Gaining recognition in trade publications can significantly boost your credibility and authority within your niche.
When you're featured in a magazine that is respected and widely read within a particular industry, it sends a powerful message to your potential clients. They see you as someone who understands their world, their challenges, and their aspirations. This trust is invaluable and can be leveraged to charge higher fees and attract more high-quality clients.
3. A Path to Networking and Partnerships
Trade publications offer a unique platform for networking and forming valuable partnerships. Your contributions might catch the attention of industry leaders, fellow experts, or even potential collaborators.
Building relationships within your niche can open doors to speaking opportunities, joint ventures, and collaborations that you might never have had access to otherwise.
Let me share a classic example of this with you...
Several years ago I was looking for sponsorship partners for a new venture I was working on but, I must admit, I had no idea how to seek sponsorship. Then out of the blue, I received a phone call from one of Australia's leading insurance companies.
They were looking for business owners to partner with to promote their new insurance package, specifically for home-based businesses. They had read an article about my business in a Small and Home-Based Business magazine and thought I might be a good fit for them.
Well, as it happened, yes... I was interested.
We ended up working together in that they sponsored my project and in exchange I promoted their services to my clients, readers and subscribers.
That was a huge win-win for us both and it would never have happened if they hadn't read about me in that trade magazine!
4. Targeted Marketing on a Budget
It's no secret that marketing can be expensive, especially when you're trying to reach a broad audience. The beauty of trade publications is that they allow you to focus your marketing efforts on a highly targeted audience without breaking the bank.
You're not paying for the wastage associated with advertising in mainstream media.
This focused approach can lead to a higher return on investment and a more cost-effective way to reach your ideal clients.
5. Content Repurposing
Another fantastic benefit of being featured in trade publications is the content you create for them can often be repurposed. You may be able to share these articles, features, or interviews on your website, blog, social media, and in your email marketing campaigns. (Make sure you check this with the publisher first though. You don't want to risk being in breach of any copyright issues.)
This not only extends the reach of your message but also positions you as a sought-after expert in your field.
6. Authentic Audience Engagement
In the era of ever-increasing digital noise and skepticism, readers of trade publications are often seeking authentic information from trusted sources.
Being featured in these publications gives you the opportunity to engage with a more genuine and receptive audience. The trust they have in the publication can translate into trust in you, leading to more meaningful connections and client relationships.
7. Elevate Your Speaking Career
If public speaking is your jam, trade publications can be a stepping stone to elevate your speaking career.
Your published work in these magazines can serve as a portfolio to attract speaking engagements at industry events, conferences, and webinars.
Plus, you'll find that event organisers are more likely to invite speakers who have a track record of sharing valuable insights through respected publications.
8. Diversify Your Media Portfolio
While it's tempting to chase after the big names in media, diversifying your media portfolio is a smart strategy. Relying solely on mainstream media can be a risky move.
When you've built a presence in trade publications, you have a well-rounded media portfolio that includes both niche and mainstream outlets. This not only spreads your risk but also allows you to leverage a broader range of platforms to reach your target audience.
9. Test and Refine Your Message
Trade publications provide a space to test and refine your message. You can see what resonates with your target audience, gather feedback, and adjust your approach accordingly.
This invaluable feedback loop allows you to fine-tune your content and your messaging strategy. It's a crucial step in developing a message that truly connects with your audience and converts readers into clients.
10. Boost Your SEO and Online Presence
Being featured in trade publications for media exposure is one thing, but it can also significantly boost your online presence and search engine optimisation (SEO).
When your name and expertise are associated with respected industry publications, it enhances your online credibility.
Plus, the links back to your website from these publications can improve your website's search engine rankings. So, not only do you get in front of your ideal audience, but you also climb the ladder in the digital landscape.
11. Long-Lasting Impact
Unlike the often short-lived nature of many mainstream media appearances, your features in trade publications tend to have a longer-lasting impact. These publications often remain in circulation for an extended period, and their content is frequently referred to in the industry.
This means that your message can continue to attract attention and clients long after the initial publication.
12. Opportunities for Guest Contributions
Trade publications are frequently open to guest contributions. Which means you have the opportunity to pitch your own articles, ideas, or expertise.
Becoming a regular contributor can establish you as a go-to source within your industry and give you an ongoing platform to share your insights.
13. An Evergreen Content Resource
The content you create for trade publications is typically evergreen, meaning it remains relevant over time.
You can continually refer clients, prospects, and partners to these articles for a deeper understanding of your expertise and philosophy. It becomes a resource that keeps working for you, even when you're not actively promoting it.
14. Overcoming the "Obscurity" Bias
Don't underestimate the impact of overcoming the "obscurity" bias. When you're featured in a respected industry publication, it counters the skepticism that can arise when clients haven't heard of you before.
So they're more likely to trust your credibility and expertise because of the third-party endorsement that these publications provide.
Summing It Up - Why Choose Trade Publications For Media Exposure?
Hopefully by now you can see that, in the quest for media recognition, it's important that you don't forget about the hidden opportunities presented by trade publications.
These often overlooked media outlets can put you directly in front of your ideal audience, enhance your credibility, and serve as a launchpad to larger, national media outlets.
The personalised approach and the unique advantages they offer mean that trade publications should be an essential part of your media outreach strategy.
So, dive into your niche, pitch your message, and watch your media presence and client base grow!
Remember, it's not always about the biggest names in the media; sometimes, the most significant impact is made in the corners of your industry that truly matter.
Now, go out there and shine in your niche, and let your expertise be recognised in the places where it counts the most. 🙂
P.S. If you liked this post, you may also find this one helpful: The Secrets For Getting The Media To Come To You... For The RIGHT Reasons
