I’ve received so much great feedback from Publicity Hounds who have used my tip about “TV Weatherperson’s Day” on February 5 that I’m mentioning itagain.
When it comes to celebrity status, the TV weather people are at the bottom of the totem pole. While the news anchor is invited to host a glitzy charity ball, the weather guy is asked to cut the ribbon at the opening of the local ice rink.
So imagine how surprised forecasters are when they receive cookie bouquets on February 5, “TV Weatherperson’s Day,” courtesy of Cookies by Design. The bouquets are even personalized with each TV station’s logo.
“Some stations announced it on every newscast from morning to midnight,” said Michael Burns, president of Michael A. Burns & Associates, the DallasPR firm that came up with the idea several years ago and suggested it to all franchise owners. The promotion was so successful that it has become a tradition. One year, Cookies by Design was mentioned on more than 80 TV stations nationwide. As a result, orders for cookie bouquets skyrocketed during the first week of February when sales are typically flat.
What can you deliver to your local TV weather person on the morning of February5? For national exposure, you can even try schmoozing Al Roker, or your favorite forecaster over at The Weather Channel.
While you’re at it, start contacting the media and pitching weather-related stories in which you can be quoted. It’s one of the easiest ways to get publicity, simply because the media always cover the weather, and few Publicity Hounds take advantage of this opportunity. Check out “Special Report #37:How to Tie Your Product, Service, Cause or Issue to the Weather.”