When Penguin launched my first book, they asked me whether I had any connections to media outlets. We drew up a list of shows and publications that might feature the book, and Penguin added their suggestions to my own. That list has proved extraordinarily useful to me over the years.

I'd like you to start one.

As you're exposed to new shows, new journalists and new outlets, you can grow your list. Use it for your article contributions, for content suggestions and to suggest potential interviews. 

This week, create a file on your PC and title it 'Media Contacts.' It's easy enough to find contact details for each of these shows online. If it's broadcast, you should generally try to find the programme manager, if it's print, find the editor. 

As an additional suggestion for populating this list, keep an eye on social media. Chances are you are connected to other experts who do something similar to you. When they are interviewed or published by media outlets that you haven't utilised yet, add these shows and publications to your list. Then make a point of offering content to them as well. 

Continue to speak to the world via your growing list of media outlets, and you could own your industry. 

Douglas Kruger, CSP, is a global speaker, who focuses on brand, culture and innovation. He is the author of five business books with Penguin and has won the national championships for Public Speaking, through Toastmasters International, a record 5 times.

In 2016, in honour of excellence in his craft, Douglas was inducted into the Speakers Hall of Fame by the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa. In 2018, the National Speakers Association granted him the accreditation of Certified Speaking Professional, a designation held by only 12 per cent of speakers globally.

See him in action, or sign up for his free newsletter, ‘From Amateur to Expert’ at www.douglaskruger.co.za. Email info@douglaskrugerspeaker.com