Media Outreach Guide

You can reach target audiences about the role of local health departments in many ways, but perhaps the single most effective conduit for delivering messages to the people you want to reach is through the media. 

Before making initial contact with a single editor or reporter, think through a media strategy. Identify your key audiences. Define your messages clearly and concisely. Determine the most appropriate media outlets for reaching your audiences and be prepared to provide the sort of background materials that reporters need and expect.

This comprehensive guide offers tips on crafting a robust media strategy and suggestions on how to effectively engage the media in your community—from developing messages and pitching stories to the local print media to partnering with the local radio and televisions outlets.