Kmart site in Bellefontaine to become self-storage business
January 11th, 2007
The Suburban Journals published a story about Hahs Real Estate Group permission to renovate a Kmart site in Bellefontaine, Missouri to a self-storage facility. This is sure to be a great conversion and illustrate to the community the multiple benefits of self-storage.
What struck me, though, is that an architect was interviewed, the mayor was interviewed, the city attorney was interviewed, a ward alderman was interviewed, but the actual developer does not have a voice in the article. It could be that the reporter didn’t try to contact him. It could be that the developer was unavailable. There could be any one of several reasons.
The bottom line is this: it would have been more beneficial to the developer to chime in on his plans, rather than having the city attorney give a brief of the deal. It will be important as the project develops that the developer have a voice in the local media so he can connect with the community and shape the story he wants told.
Press releases announcing project plans, ground breakings and the like can help make sure this developer gets a voice. Dealing with the media takes a bit of savvy. You don’t want to inundaute editors or give them foolish leads or they won’t respect you.
But listen up developers: If you are working on a project, let the media know. Don’t wait for the city reporter to find out at a town meeting. Get proactive and shape the story early and guide it through. You’ll be glad you did.
Entry Filed under: Public Relations, Media Relations
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