1. Media Relations 101

2. 2 Media relations basics Terminology What makes news? What makes the media tick? How to get your news out Beyond news releases and advisories…

3. 3 Media relations lingo Key tools: news releases, media advisories, fact sheets Other tools: backgrounders, media kits, family bios, key messages Beats, boilerplates, pitches, oh my!

4. 4 Common media materials Backgrounder Community calendar entry Fact sheet Homebuyer biographical sketch Key messages Media advisory Media kits News release Pitch letter Public service announcement (PSA) Talking points Go to: www.thriventbuilds.com/resources

5. 5 What makes news? What’s news and what isn’t will depend to a great extent on where you live and the size of your newspapers and radio and TV stations.

6. 6 Know your media It’s important to familiarize yourself with local newspapers and area radio and TV stations. Develop an ongoing relationship with a reporter or editor at each news outlet who covers feel-good stories.

7. 7 Time to write and edit! Many templates are available at www.thriventbuilds.com/resources. Remember to ask ASO media specialists to review media materials before sending them to the media.

8. 8 Distribution tips Send to multiple media outlets. Send materials by preferred method. Send to the appropriate person. Ask about deadlines. Always contact the editorial/news department. If using e-mail, copy and paste, don’t attach. Sometimes personal delivery is best. Make a follow-up call. Don’t expect a response. Respond quickly to requests.

9. 9 Working with the media Be prepared. Don’t expect an immediate commitment. Don’t complain about minor inaccuracies in stories. Never ask to see a story before it’s published. Be aware of basic deadlines. Take time to say thanks!

10. 10 Keep in contact Direct, personal communication on occasion is important. Don’t expect to make the headlines every time. If you read or see a story that was done well, send a quick note to the reporter.

11. 11 Show me the tools! They’re all located at: www.thriventbuilds.com/resources

12. 12 Partnering with the ASO media relations team—Cheryl and Kelsey Consulting Assistance with writing and editing Media lists

13. 13 If you have questions about this training: Cheryl Winget (Habitat for Humanity International) Media Relations Specialist Cheryl.Winget@thrivent.com 612-844-5025 Minneapolis, MN Kelsey Peterson (Thrivent Financial for Lutherans) Media Relations Specialist Kelsey.Peterson@thrivent.com 612-844-5825 Minneapolis, MN