How to Get Your Events and Announcements in Patch

By Lauren Edwards

Wonder how and got such good publicity in Patch?

They are examples of DIY (Do It Yourself) success.

Here's how you can do the same: Click on the links below and fill in the blanks. The more photos and PDFs you upload, the better. You can even add videos. Nice "art," as we call it, makes it easier for us to give you the top spot on the page.

To post announcements, click here, or go to http://sanlorenzo.patch.com/announcements/new

To post events, click here, or go to http://sanlorenzo.patch.com/events/new

Here are suggestions for improving the appeal of your contribution:

1. Don't use all capital letters. It looks like you're shouting.
2. Don't use exclamation points. Let your information itself be the excitement.
3. Focus on the reader, not your organization.

• Tell the reader why he or she might want to attend your event, why it matters, or why it's surprising, enlightening or entertaining.
• Or help the reader see why your information is relevant in his or her own life or business. Start with that part, and give the background and details about your organization later.

It might seem strange to de-emphasize the information about your organization itself.

After all, your goal is to promote your organization, right? Well, the best way to do that is to show readers why you make a difference in their lives. Then you'll have their attention.

If you talk solely about your organization's needs and background, you lose appeal and maybe even a bit of credibility. Be of service, and readers will have a reason to keep reading your contribution.

If you already have a press release, you can cut and paste the main body of it. But avoid including extra details like "For Immediate Release."

Also keep in mind there's no need to "sound" like a press release. Write as if you're writing an email to a friend. Patch is a place where people can connect with people, online but locally. It's OK to sound like a personable person. No need to be overly formal.

Do proofread carefully. If you include typos, spelling errors and mistaken punctuation, it might make a bad impression.

If your event is canceled or postponed, remember to revise your posting to let people know.

If you have questions, contact San Lorenzo Patch's local editor, Analisa Harangozo, at analisa.harangozo@patch.com