Newsjacking is a powerful strategy for piggybacking your ideas or angles onto breaking news, in real-time, in order to generate media coverage for yourself, or your business.

That’s why we’ve created a step-by-step roadmap using our June 2024 calendar and our “How to Newsjack the News or a Trend” guide to direct you as you learn how to master this technique.

Step 1: Identify Relevant Dates and Themes

  • Review the June 2024 calendar: Look for days/weeks relevant to your industry, expertise, or target audience. Example: If you’re a fitness company, mark Global Running Day (June 5th) and Men’s Health Week (June 10th-16th).
  • Brainstorm related topics: Expand upon the themes for broader newsjacking potential.
    Example: Global Running Day could tie into stories about fitness trends, marathon training, or even sports technology. Men’s Health Week could be linked to mental health, healthy eating, or work-life balance discussions.

Step 2: Monitor News and Trends

  • Set up news alerts: Use keywords related to your chosen themes.
  • Use social media monitoring tools to help: Track conversations, hashtags and trending topics.
  • Pay attention to industry publications: Stay informed about breakthroughs, controversies, and noteworthy events within your field.

Step 3: Plan Your Angle

  • Connect your expertise to the news: What unique insights or perspectives can you offer?
  • Make it relevant to your target audience: How does this news impact them?
    Example: For Men’s Health Week, a fitness company might highlight how their programmes help men manage stress and improve wellbeing.

Step 4: Craft Your Content

  • Prioritise speed: Newsjacking requires timely responses – often within 24-48 hours of a story breaking.
  • Keep it concise and engaging: Focus on key takeaways and actionable advice.
  • Use visuals: Images, infographics and videos enhance shareability.

Step 5: Promote Your Content

  • Use relevant hashtags: Reach a wider audience on social media.
  • Pitch to journalists: Offer your expertise as a source for commentary.
  • Leverage your existing network: Share your content with clients, partners and industry contacts.

Step 6: Track Results and Adapt

  • Monitor website traffic, social media engagement, and media mentions.
  • Learn from what works (and what doesn’t) to refine your newsjacking strategy.

Bonus: June 2024 Newsjacking Opportunities

  • International Picnic Day (June 18th): Food brands, lifestyle businesses and even outdoor equipment retailers can leverage this fun day.
  • World Environment Day (June 5th): Sustainable and eco-conscious businesses have a prime opportunity to showcase their values and efforts.
  • US/UK Father’s Day (June 16th): A multitude of industries, from retail to travel, can connect with this occasion.

But always remember:

  1. Be authentic and relevant. Don’t force a connection if it doesn’t exist.
  2. Add value to the conversation. Offer insights that are helpful and informative.
  3. Be respectful and mindful. Avoid exploiting sensitive or tragic events.

Happy pitching!

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