Press Kits: Electronic vs. Print

A question that I always seem to hear concerns the format of media (press) kits.

Electronic or print?

The answer is fairly simple.

Both.

As long as you have your documents and materials in electronic format, you can post them online, email them, etc. But it's also always good to have print copies on hand for media -- or just other people who may be interested -- at your office or at events.

Physical press kits are especially good if you have a business or organization that has samples. Mind you, such samples shouldn't so big where you can't slide them in a folder to drop in the mail or at someone's office.

Ultimately, the golden room when it comes to press kits is that you should have one. Having that information readily available can not only cut down on mistakes but it helps you focus the pitch of your story as the kit is put together.

Some 9/11 Nonprofits 'Fail Miserably'

It's safe to say I have a soft spot for nonprofit organizations, as I find they are the ones most often sitting on amazing stories -- and have no clue how to tell them.


It's why part of my business focuses on helping nonprofits figure out how to tell their stories.


But there are some instances where nonprofits definitely shouldn't be happy about being recognized in the news.


In recognizing the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, the Associated Press examined the flurry of organizations that sprung up in the wake of the devastating terror attacks -- and how they spent some $1.5 billion given in donations to aid various causes. What they found reinforces a point made on this blog after the tsunami in Japan: you must do your homework before giving.


"To be sure, most of the 325 charities identified by the AP followed the rules, accounted fully for their expenditures and closed after fulfilling identified goals," AP reported. "...But in virtually every category of 9/11 nonprofit, an AP analysis of tax documents and other official records uncovered schemes beset with shady dealings, questionable expenses and dubious intentions. Many of those still raising money are small, founded by people with no experience running a nonprofit."


CEOs paying themselves hundreds of thousands of dollars, unexplained loans and large sums of money going to unreported expenses were included in the tip of the iceberg in AP's investigation.


In the face of tragedy, the desire to help is understandable, even commendable. But to ensure you don't end up with the wrong kind of publicity, make sure you do your research when it comes to giving -- and receiving -- money for others.

The Fine Line Between Social Media and Spreading Rumors

We've spoken before about about using social media, such as Twitter, as means to get news and information.

Though I concede people may first "hear" about news on their social media feeds and streams, I also believe that many people Google or check a reputable news outlet before believing -- or spreading -- the information.

But over the last few days, we have an intriguing case and I'd love to know what say you about when spreading information via social media becomes a criminal offense.

According to the Associated Press, two men in Mexico City face charges of terrorism and panic after Tweeting false reports that gunmen were attacking schools. Chaos and 26 car crashes ensued as terrified parents rushed to pick up their children, prosecutors said. If convicted, the men could face up to 30 years in prison.

Meanwhile, defense attorneys said the two men were simply retweeting and posting what had been told to them.

So, what do you think? What is the responsibility of social media users to verify before they post? And in what situations?

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc.  Her background is in print journalism and she has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette advises nonprofits and small businesses on how they can get media attention for their programs and efforts. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.