How to Newsjack: A Guide for Content Marketers singlegrain.com

In the online world, information flows so quickly and everyone vies to be in that top “trending” spot. Newsjacking ie. taking advantage of the moment’s breaking news is a great way to get brand awareness and social shares with little effort.

Check out this guide for the best newsjacking examples…and also some of the worst so you know what to avoid.

Here’s a quick summary on how to begin using this tactic for your business:

1. Keep up to date on the latest news with alerts (this article’s got some great suggestions)
2. Pick the right platform for your content type
   • A witty line and suitable image would be great for Twitter
3. The post needs to have strong keywords
   • Make use of quality SEO techniques for articles as well as trending hashtags
4. Be quick! Being late to the party doesn’t work here
5. Broadcast your content
   • Use media contacts, influencers or an email blast to get the ball rolling

While we do want to newsjack the most current topics, there are certain rules. Don’t gossip about competitors or use tragedies as a chance to promote products. These methods might get you attention, but for all the wrong reasons.

Look out for under the radar trends that are related to your company and its products, because while it’s difficult to jump on every single viral phenomenon, you’re certainly going to find enough to help you get noticed. (In the right way).