Why You’re Not Securing Press Coverage — And What To Do About It

Securing consistent, high-quality press coverage is one of the key goals of any effective PR strategy. Coverage builds credibility, raises brand awareness, and if done well, can lead to a long-term increase in customers and sales.

But if your brand isn't appearing in the media, your current approach to public relations could be holding you back.

Here’s why you might not be getting the coverage you deserve, and what to do about it.

1. Your Content Is Too Sales-Focused

Let’s be clear: PR is not advertising. If your content reads like a product pitch, it won’t make it past a journalist’s inbox.

What does work?

• Strong, newsworthy storytelling

• Clever messaging that aligns with current media interest

• Value-driven insights your audience cares about

At Lem-uhn, we land features in high-ranking publications because we understand what journalists and their audiences are looking for, and we tailor each pitch to fit.

2. You’re Not Reacting Fast Enough

PR has always required speed, but reactive PR is now essential. Since the pandemic, we’ve seen a shift: even brands that aren’t household names can land national coverage if they move quickly on a trending topic.

To succeed, you need:

• An always-on PR team who can respond to opportunities in real time

• A strategy that includes reactive commentary and media monitoring

• Clear, concise press materials with all necessary info and links

That doesn’t mean burning your team out. At Lem-uhn, we believe in balancing reactivity with well-being. We’ve built internal systems to support journalists and our people. Learn more about our feel-good PR model.

3. Your Story Just Isn’t Interesting (Yet)

We get it, you're passionate about your brand. But if your content isn’t landing, it might not be resonating with the right audience. Ask yourself:

• Does this story serve the publication’s target demographic?

• Would this headline make you stop scrolling?

Example: Hypebae’s readers might love a piece on a sex toy recycling scheme. But a feel-good local business story? That’s one for WalesOnline.

Knowing how to match a story to a publication is essential. PR is about perspective, and a good agency brings an objective eye.

4. What Makes a Story Newsworthy?

Even a brilliant business idea won’t make the cut unless it’s packaged as a compelling story. So what are journalists actually looking for?

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Timeliness — Is this linked to something happening right now?

• Relevance — Does it matter to the publication’s specific audience?

• Human interest — Is there a real person or emotional angle at the heart of it?

• Novelty — Is this a “first,” a surprise, or a twist on the expected?

• Credibility — Are there stats, experts, or authority figures backing it up?

Every strong pitch hits at least one of these notes, and great stories often hit two or three. The goal isn’t to talk about your brand. It’s to offer value that fits naturally into the editorial landscape.

Free Strategy Support: Book a PR Audit

If your PR strategy is falling flat, we can help. Our free 15-minute PR Strategy Audit analyses what’s working, what isn’t, and how to start getting coverage that actually converts. Book your free audit here.

Want More Tips Like This?

Join our newsletter for monthly feel-good PR insight, success stories, and smart strategies that work.