Well Seasoned

December is finally here – so it’s time to start thinking about your Xmas PR campaign right?

Wrong! Timing is key in PR planning and if you don’t take into account media lead times you’re wasting your time.

The glossy monthlies work up to six months in advance so when the snow’s on the ground it’s time to be talking picnics, swimwear and bbqs.

Weekly magazines will have shorter lead times but we’re still talking months. Newspaper and broadcast lead times vary depending upon which section/programme you’re targeting, but you still need to allow plenty of time.

If it’s the trade press you’re targeting then long lead times also often apply – particularly when it comes to features.

As a rule it’s always good to have time on your side. Local papers often appreciate copy they can hold over - particularly during holiday periods, when news teams are depleted and pages still have to be filled.

So, who fancies an ice cream?