Would you advise clients to buy a stock based on the say so of an investor relations person, or something you overheard at a restaurant? Of course not. You want to see at least some independent research before suggesting it be added to your clients' portfolios.

Media people are just as protective of their "clients," the reading and viewing public.

Your word about a new trend in investing or the latest tip for retirement planning might be enough to get a media person interested, but it usually won't be enough information for them to write a whole article or create a television segment.

Most times, they'll need more than your timely information and juicy quotes to complete their story. They'll need some background information such as:

• Pertinent statistics
• Real-life examples
• Photos of you or of clients who have benefited from your advice
• Confirmation from other experts

Sure, you can leave it to them to do the additional research, or dig up the photos they need to flesh out your story.

And just as sure, they may decide to move onto another story ? one that requires less heavy lifting. The more you help a reporter, the better the odds your story will fly. Make it easy for them, and they'll come back to you again and again!

Ned Steele works with people in professional services who want to build their practice and accelerate their growth. The president of Ned Steele's MediaImpact, he is the author of 102 Publicity Tips To Grow a Business or Practice. To learn more visit http://www.MediaImpact.biz or call 212-243-8383.