How can you build relationships with media contacts in the automotive industry?

This varies with the intention of media relations and your market. Let's assume KOLs for investor relations. You should use Muckrack to identify reporters that write on automotive for the US market and then drill further for your specific use case. Use the Yandex search engine on the Brave browser to find niche communities and discussion forums in automotive. These are high authority points of origin for stories. Make a list of reporters based on their specific beats within auto. Use tools such as AIAV to scrape their tweets and ascertain the topics they are passionate about or gravitate towards.

Research and Identify Key Contacts: Identify relevant journalists, bloggers, editors, and influencers who cover the automotive industry. Look for those who specialize in the topics that align with your brand or products.

Use tools such as AIAV to scrape their tweets and ascertain the topics they are passionate about or gravitate towards. Using the AIAV platform, ask the reporter-bot questions about your story and what angles are of interest. Cross check this with the past stories written by the reporter. Consider the publications' editorial calendar and spot a theme. Check if ICIJ has an institutional story on the same or related topic. Best to pitch via email and offer your number if they need more information. If you have a rapport, a DM the next day is acceptable. A call 2-3 days later applies if you've offered an exclusive or shared an embargo 10-15 days ahead. Pitch content will vary between each reporter. Quality over quantity.

Assume you're a career coach for the reporter and want them to succeed, regardless of any outcome for yourself or your client. Yes, you have the time to do this. Point out market trends, provide them with bespoke access, invite them to the inner sanctum, and send them opportunities to expand their understanding of their beat. I have personally written recommendation letters so biz/tech reporters can attend 3-4 week econ/finance fellowships at leading Ivy business schools. They come back confident, better equipped, and eager to work on big picture stories. Thus you are forever to them the one that raises them up.

Certainly, providing consistent value and support to media contacts is crucial for cultivating strong relationships. By being a reliable source of quality information and resources, you position yourself as a valuable asset to journalists. Responsiveness and a collaborative approach further enhance this relationship, creating a foundation of trust and reliability. This not only increases the likelihood of media coverage but also contributes to a positive and enduring connection with media professionals.

For automotive media, one practical way to engage and appreciate them is to offer them exclusive test drives to experience your latest vehicles. Journalists always appreciate exclusive information, especially you are a popular automotive brand that everyone wants to know more about.