Secretarial services - free publicity

The "Write" Stuff -- Make a Name for Yourself
by Nancy Gillespie

There is an expression in Hollywood -- "there is no such thing as bad press." Publicists know the importance of getting their clients' names in front of people.

Likewise, as a business owner, you also want name recognition -- not only for you but also for you as a business owner. Every time you get your name in front of the public, it increases your name recognition and puts you "top of mind." You know the drill -- business cards, advertis­ing, press releases, etc.

But here's an easier way -- write a letter to the editor! Comment on topics of public interest or a recent news item or share information related to your business. (For example: "As a pool service techni­cian, I was disturbed by your recent news item on the swimming pool drowning. Here are some water safety tips.")

• Determine what the policy of the newspaper is for submitting letters. For instance, the North County Times requires that letters include your full name, address, and daytime phone number. Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks, and letters should be no longer than 200 words.
  
• Refer perhaps to the type of busi­ness you are in, but don't state your business name -- that's just a shameless plug. Commercial com­plaints and endorsements ordinarily are not published.
  
• E-mail the letter. Editors prefer them to letters on paper because e-mailed letters don't have to be retyped. Also, an e-mailed letter costs you nothing -- no paper, no postage.
  
• Once your letter gets printed in the newspaper, photocopy it. En­close copies with your billings and correspondence. Put a framed copy on your wall. This lets people know you are a business owner with credibility -- you are a published writer!
  
• Don't stop there. There is power in numbers. Send another letter when you have something else to say about your crusade or cause. This is where the name recognition really kicks in.
  

Nancy has operated A+ Secretarial and Business Services In Vista California for 9 years. She the author of "14 Surefire Tips to Get the Job of Your Dreams," a concise book to assist job hunters. For more information about her secretarial services or her book, call 760-945-666, email nancyjg5@cox.net, or visit www.aplusnancy.com.