When not to issue a press release

​What do the Chicago Cubs and your press release have in common?

The quick answer: absolutely nothing.

The Cubs head into the 2015 MLB Playoffs after a memorable season, sparking renewed interest among fans. There's a huge swath of enthusiasm for the north siders heading into the one-game playoff with the Pirates.

And, with that amount of hype and attention being focused on one game, your chances of attracting media attention for your press release are next to nothing. 

It's not that your story isn't newsworthy or important. It's that the media's immediate focus is on the Cubs and everything that goes along with the game:

• People traveling to Pittsburgh hoping to see the game
• Vendors selling Cubs memorabilia
• Cubs fans discussing their superstitions
• Bars getting ready for big crowds to watch the game
• Etc, etc.
  

So, when you're planning to send out a press release or holding a press conference, consider what else is happening. What other events are scheduled that day that might affect interest in your story?

Sure, there are times when you do your best to avoid any conficts and something unexpected develops. Those are unfortunate and can't be helped.

But, whenever you can, think about what else the media has to cover and include that in your decision about when and how to release your news.

Mack Communications | Twitter: @Mack_Comm