Let’s be honest: most entrepreneurs don’t have time to write long press releases or chase journalists. But getting featured in the press — even once — can shift everything. It builds trust, opens doors, and gets your work in front of the right people.

Here’s how to make it happen, without hiring a PR firm or losing your mind.

1. Start with the story, not the sell

Journalists aren’t looking for perfect businesses. They’re looking for real people doing real things.

What’s the heart of your story?

• Did you launch your business after a big life pivot?

• Are you solving a problem no one else is talking about?

• Did something unexpected happen that changed your direction?

If you’re not sure what’s interesting, ask someone outside your bubble. Often, what feels ordinary to you is the hook.

2. Find the right person, not just the right outlet

Don’t send a blanket email to every editor you can find. Instead:

• Read the publication you want to be in

• Find the journalist who covers stories like yours

• Send a short, personal note — no jargon, no attachments, just the story and why it matters now

Keep it human. Keep it short. And don’t be afraid to follow up once — just not five times.

3. Local press is underrated

Everyone wants national coverage, but local journalists are often more open — and their readers are more likely to care.

They’re also stretched thin, so if you send a clear story with a quote and a photo, you’re doing them a favour.

4. Be ready when they say yes

If someone’s interested, be responsive.

• Keep your phone on

• Have a decent photo ready

• Don’t ask when it’ll run — they often don’t know

And if it doesn’t run? That’s okay. You’ve started a relationship. That’s worth something too.

5. Visibility isn’t just for big brands

At Yaya Unlimited, we’ve helped filmmakers, artists, and founders get their stories out — sometimes with just a gentle nudge.

One client shared his funding journey on stage after a quiet push from us — and it changed how the industry saw him. That’s the kind of visibility that sticks.

6. If they say no, don’t take it personally

Sometimes it’s timing. Sometimes it’s the angle. Sometimes they’re just swamped.

Say thank you, stay connected, and pitch again when the moment’s right.

Final thought

You don’t need a PR budget to be seen. You need a story, a bit of courage, and someone to help shape the message.

If you’re building something and want support getting the word out — with clarity, care, and strategy — I’d love to talk.

Quick Guide: How to Get Your Business in the News

No PR firm. Just clarity, courage, and a story that matters.

What Works

• Lead with a story — not a pitch. What’s surprising, emotional, or timely about your journey?

• Find the right journalist — read their work, reach out personally, keep it short.

• Local press is powerful — they’re accessible, engaged, and often under-resourced.

• Be ready — phone on, photo prepped, quote clear.

• Respect the no — thank them, stay connected, pitch again when the moment’s right.

Bonus Moves

• Offer to be a case study for industry bodies or creative networks

• Join founder groups where journalists look for real stories

• Frame your message around why now — relevance is everything

Real Impact

At Yaya Unlimited, we’ve helped creatives and founders land coverage that actually moves the needle. One gentle nudge led to a filmmaker sharing his funding journey on stage — and the industry listened.

If you’re building something and want to be seen — not just promoted — let’s talk.

We shape communications that resonate.