How does one get info on marketing and public relations contacts for famous firms?

Question

My husband started a small publicity firm this year. I was wondering if anyone can give me ideas as to how to contact firms like Loreal, Coca Cola, Walmart, Baskin Robins, and others. I have made contact with some of their local publicity agents but they always just say they will present my material to their customer. I am almost sure they are not doing it. I want to present these companies my media without having to go through their agent. I see ads in local magazines and wonder how they get them to place their ads. I haven't had any success yet. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

Answer 1

So many people answer these questions that have absolutely no idea of what they are talking about.

My agency has many national and regional clients and I am assuming that you are asking how to get your husband work through large companies. It takes persistence and a good b to b marcom plan that will consist of direct mail that will grab their attention and make them know who you are when you follow up with your calls. Contact them each and every month until they know you. You then will be enough on a friendship level that they will allow you to meet with them and show them what you can do if the samples you have shown were impressive in any way.

Your other question. How do the little local mags get them to advertise in their paper. It is the other way around frequently. The media buyers for the company search out publications and ask them for their media kits which show the publications reader demographics. If they match well with their target they make a deal.

One of my clients owns a national syndicated radio show and he obtains clients from a sales person calling these large companies and telling them how they would be a great fit.

Here is the big one that gives away that these people answering these questions have no clue. How to get the marcom and pr exec lists. You buy it. There are tons of list broker companies out there. Lists cost like 6 cents a name. You would be a complete idiot to spend months building a list of key contact names and numbers. Anyone saying that has no clue what they are doing and I find it offensive that someone would even answer a question and respond by giving someone months of unnecessary work.

Answer 2

if you are looking for local ad dollars you need to find a regional office and ask to speak to the ad manager.

National firms don't place their own stuff - they have HUGE agencies that place their huge buysand they will only buy local stuff if it fits a particular need and is easy to buy, and proven.

I don't agree that a list is the best way to go - so many outdated lists out there. You can google to company
"x company, Town you are looking for the contact in, Marketing Director" You can also try Zoom Info or Linked In.

Also try and do some homeowrk on what they are doing so you are educated when you call them. Good luck!

Answer 3

There are MANY networking events in larger cities. Choose your target, and market them like crazy. If there is a Business Journal print in your area, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you check into that, too. Not only do you get a weekly business paper, but there are A LOT of GREAT business leads, in the event that you may want to expand your market. The Regional Chamber Of Commerce in your area will also be helpful !!! 95% of the CEOs in those described firms, and companies are dedicated subscribers to the business journal, and often attend many events in your local area. Hope this helps

Answer 4

You really have to just know people, but most websites have number and address' I am in the radio business so if ya needed I can get you some contacts for Nashville recording artists, and PR who send out their songs. But really, find somone in TV and make friends with them, barder and trade work very well to get somone to use you, trust me.

good luck! :)

Answer 5

It will be tough to get attention from the big corps. Have you checked the websites, annual statements, etc., of these corps?