Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Talking Points • Share of Voice • Press Conference

Media Advisory

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

A Media Advisory is a brief document used in public relations to inform journalists and media outlets about upcoming events, press conferences, or photo opportunities. It's different from a press release because it's shorter and focuses on the basic who, what, when, where, and why of an upcoming event rather than telling a complete story. Think of it as an invitation for the media that helps reporters decide if they want to cover your event. Some people also call it a "media alert" or "press advisory." It's one of the basic tools PR professionals use to get media attention for their organizations or clients.

Examples in Resumes

Created and distributed Media Advisory documents that resulted in coverage by three major news networks

Wrote compelling Media Alert materials for high-profile company events

Managed distribution of Press Advisory content to local and national media outlets

Typical job title: "PR Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist Communications Coordinator PR Manager Media Relations Specialist Communications Manager Press Secretary Public Affairs Officer

Where to Find PR Professionals

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when to use a media advisory versus a press release?

Expected Answer: A senior PR professional should explain that media advisories are best for announcing upcoming events and press conferences, while press releases are for sharing news that has already happened. They should also discuss how they evaluate which format will get better media response based on the content and timing.

Q: How do you measure the success of a media advisory campaign?

Expected Answer: The answer should cover tracking media attendance at events, monitoring pick-up rates, evaluating resulting coverage, and explaining how to adjust strategy based on results. They should also mention relationship building with key media contacts.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you include in an effective media advisory?

Expected Answer: Should discuss the five W's (who, what, when, where, why), proper formatting, contact information, and how to write compelling headlines that grab journalists' attention. Should also mention the importance of timing and follow-up.

Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to event details after sending a media advisory?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of sending updates, importance of clear communication, and maintaining media relationships. Should mention having backup plans and crisis communication strategies.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between a media advisory and a press release?

Expected Answer: Should explain that a media advisory is a brief announcement about an upcoming event (like an invitation), while a press release is a longer document that tells a complete news story about something that has happened.

Q: How do you distribute a media advisory?

Expected Answer: Should mention using media distribution lists, email timing, follow-up calls, and basic media database management. Should also know about using wire services and direct pitching to journalists.