Have you ever wanted to get something started, but kept waiting for the “right” time?

Yup – I’ve been there. There’s always an excuse NOT to do something, so I’ve decided to take all the excuses away and let you know 5 simple things you can do to get a jump on your PR campaign.

• Buy one magazine you are dying to be featured in (or just pick it up if you already subscribe) – go through and dog-ear all of the pages you can see you or your product/service featured. I guarantee there will be more than one place you’re right for, and a completely new opportunity to send a pitch for that publication!

• Watch TV – that’s right! Take the time to watch the show you desire to be on, then take the following notes – how long are the segments? Who is/are the host(s)? What time do the segments appear that fit your topic? What was the lead-in to the segment? Get familiar with the way the show works and you can expertly craft your pitch just for that show!

• Contact your local newspaper and see if they will do a story on you as a local business. Most local newspapers love highlighting “rising stars.” Local coverage can often lead to big opportunities!

• Get the inside scoop on the editorial world on Twitter! Many editors, producers and writers “tweet” often about what they are working on! Follow my list of over 50 media tweeters here: http://twitter.com/home#/list/casseracomm/media-on-twitter

• Write down three “newsworthy” topics that you can pitch this month. Short lead outlets are working on St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Passover, Women’s History Month and Shaping up for Spring! Long lead outlets are working on August/September issues – think Back to School!