If you are involved with non-profit fundraising, event planning or promotions, the best way to get free publicity is through a Public Service Announcement. The FCC requires so many hours of PSA time a year using radio and television. Both are beneficial but radio PSAs are completely free if done correctly. It’s really simple to create a radio clip.
- Look for a free MP3 recorder online through a site like mypodcast.com.
- Write a script 30-60 seconds in length (I do one 30 second and one 60 second). Make sure to include dates, times, location and make it entertaining. People will not pay attention if it’s dry.
- Plug in your microphone and record. I found a local comedian to become my spokesperson for free. He had great presence and was fantastic at helping me jazz up my script.
- Add some music to the background but make sure to have permission from the artist. I found a local band who recorded one of their songs without lyrics for me. Also make sure to make the music really light and quiet to not over-power your message. Here is an example of a PSA that played on nine large Seattle radio stations: http://bit.ly/psasample
- Send to all of the local radio stations. The typical contact is the Community Relations Manager. Follow-up if you don’t hear back. There have been times my PSAs were played and I didn’t even know it.
- The closer to the beginning of the year you ask your local stations to play your PSA the more likely it will get play time. Most stations will play PSAs even after they have surpassed the required time anyway but why take the chance.
PSAs can be the most beneficial advertising service for your organization. Not only is it free but it reaches thousands of people. Don’t waste this valuable resource; contact your local stations! To hear and see sample PSAs check out some of my broadcasts.
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