Public Service announcements are short radio spots — usually 15 to 60 seconds long — that radio stations play for free as service to their communities. Because PSAs are short, they’re best for sharing basic information on PH. Here are some ideas for PSA topics:
All radio stations are different and they may have different guidelines for PSAs, so it’s important to contact each radio station to familiarize yourself with their preferences. There are three basic ways to get a PSA aired:
1. Create a Media List of local radio stations
2. Contact each station
It’s important to get in touch with the right person at each station. Their title may be different from station to station, but you’re looking for the person responsible for airing PSAs. If at first you don’t succeed, ask the station staff to help you find the right person. This person may be the Director of Community Affairs, Public Affairs or Public Service, Program Director, News Director or General Manager.
When you find the right station employee, ask if they accept PSAs and ask about their PSA process — would they prefer a recorded PSA, a written PSA or would they like to create one in collaboration with you?
3. Make your pitch or submit your cover letter
If the station is ready to talk about your PSA immediately, great! If not, send a letter or email that demonstrates why awareness of PH is so important to you and your community. Briefly share your person PH story or the story of a loved one. And be sure to include talking points about PH.
4. Follow up with the station
If you don’t hear back from the station, call or write to gently remind them that you made contact. If you don’t succeed, don’t give up! Let them know that you’re ready to work with them when PSA airtime becomes available.
5. Tell PHA
Since everyone’s experience with raising awareness is different, we want to hear from every member of the PHAware Campaign. And if you get a copy of your PSA, let us know and we’ll share it with the community!
Contact Elisabeth to order press kits and for help preparing your media outreach. Contact PHAware@PHAssociation.org or 301-565-3004 x753.