Using tip sheets as PR material

A tip sheet is usually one page and has 5-12 tips on a certain topic. It also has a short introduction which is followed by numbered tips. Tip sheets are brief and have contact details at the end. They are publicity tools that are often neglected by many. Tip sheets can show off expertise and can explain to the reader how to solve a personal or professional problem.

The structure

The title of a tip sheet should clearly indicate its content. The introduction can be one to four paragraphs. The introduction is followed by numbered tips. The entire tip sheet should be written in a crisp and readable style. The aim of the title is to arouse interest among the people who will hopefully become patrons of a business the PR professional wants to publicize. The headline should be attention-grabbing. An example of attention-grabbing headline is, ‘Six factors to consider before choosing a dermatologist’. The lips should also be organized logically. For instance, if the tip sheet is a series of steps, then it should be in a chronological order.

The tone

A tip sheet is not just about self promotion. A good tip sheet promotes a business in a subtle yet compelling manner as it provides information that only somebody with genuine expertise can deliver. Tip sheets can contain stories, cases, and examples of what a business has done for others. These examples always remain subordinate to the tips. It should be impeccably written and it should be edited or proofread carefully. The spelling, punctuation, and grammar should be correct and consistent. Contact information should feature prominently on the tip sheet. Given below are ways that a tip sheet can earn a business free publicity.

Used as handouts at seminars

A tip sheet can be referred to repeatedly and can be passed to others. Tip sheets can be handed out at exhibitions and trade shows. Participants at trade shows will pick them up and keep them as they normally contain beneficial information. For instance, at an exhibition on decor, a tip sheet on ‘ How to check out your dream house before you buy it’ can be circulated.

Tip sheets can be published

Whenever a new tip sheet is printed, it can be sent to a pertinent publication. The publication should be given ‘one time rights’ so that the tip sheet can be used in different ways. It should be ensured that the publication includes contact information at the end of the tip sheet.

Use as content for the company website

A tip sheet can be posted on the company website. They can be tied up with holidays and can be posted as themed content on the  website.

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