Mastering PR for Startups: Insights from Y Combinator CEO's Michael Seibel
Navigating public relations can be a complex process for startups. Y Combinator CEO Michael Seibel shares invaluable advice for startup founders on effectively managing PR strategies. I’ve also added my insights.
Treat PR Like Business Development
The key to successful PR lies in treating it similarly to business development. This approach involves:
Building Genuine Relationships
Develop connections with reporters just as you would with business partners. I urge entrepreneurs to opt for warm introductions over cold outreach.
Making Your Own Press Contacts
CEOs and co-founders should personally build relationships with journalists. Avoid relying on PR agencies, especially in the early stages. (Seibel’s words)
Generating Timely and Relevant News
News should be current and relevant. This includes product launches, significant milestones, key business deals, and fundraising events. What is news to you would most likely be irrelevant in a newspaper, so look to build actual credibility with newsworthy publications.
Pitching Process:
Exclusive Offers
From my experience, pitching your story exclusively to one tech journalist at a time, targeting outlets where your audience is concentrated, is very important.
Consistent News Sharing
Regularly share news, aiming for coverage every month or two rather than a single large story annually. (Siebel’s words)
Effective Communication:
Simple and Clear Introductions
Your email to reporters should be concise, ideally allowing them to grasp your news and respond within thirty seconds.
Preparation for Calls
Be ready with key points about your news and company, and follow up with helpful materials like notes, screenshots, and graphs.
Be Flexible
You might have a specific angle in mind but remember, journalists have an editorial calendar they need to stick to, so be open to exploring new ideas for your story.
Long-Term PR Strategy:
Maintaining a News Queue
Keep a pipeline of 3-5 news items ready for the next six months.
Analyzing Success Rates
Aim for a 25-50% success rate with your pitches, and learn from any rejections.
Evolving Role of PR
As your startup grows, the role of PR evolves. PR professionals can become more strategic in managing press relations.
Hello PR experts, what are your thoughts on this post?
#entrepreneurs #startups #pr #innovation #media #tech #publicrelations
Elena Chuldina thank you for sharing your thoughts!