rbs,

Our local newspaper will publish articles submitted by readers. I have often thought about submitting different article regarding funerals and the choices families have to make when a loved one passes away. The idea would be to educate the general public on a subject that is so hush hush.

Maybe it would be beneficial to you to submit an article to a local publication explaining the importance and benefits of pre-planning a funeral. This way you are not doing a mass mailing and looking "pushy". With a newspaper article readers can choose to read the article or can choose not to read the article.

Just another Idea for you to think about.

Posted by:

Ryan Thogmartin (Huppstiverson)
Connecting Directors, Co-Founder

Hi Ron,

I agree with Ryan, and know funeral directors that have had success with local media (both print and radio) by doing exactly as Ryan suggested. A ready-made story can come in handy for journalists during quiet times, so don't be disappointed if your article is not picked up straight away!

Please let me know if you would like to see an example of the sort of press releases that have been successful here in Australia. The reason I am aware of these is because our new resource for families "When We Remember" has formed the primary benefit to entice readers and journalists.

After buiding awareness of the benefits of pre-planning, readers / listeners are encouraged to drop in to "Caring Funerals" to borrow a copy, or buy a copy (as it is not available in bookstores).

One funeral director had a very sucessful and FREE print article plus radio airtime when he offered the first 10 callers a free copy of "When We Remember" He reasoned that at $300 ifor 10 copies it was cheaper than taking an ad / designing- printing- delivering a mailout.

Another bonus is that it positions you as the "expert" in your community, willing to go the extra mile to serve and educate for the benefit of the local families. He was easily promoting his funeral home as a giving, generous and vital center of the community.

How many pre-need arrangements do you aim to make? How many to cover costs, and how many to make your activity a success?

Also consider the many long term benefits when you hold a significant number of pre-need contracts. It can help you to get motivated in your busy schedule and allocate time NOW to increasing this sector of your business!

On another approach entirely, funeral directors have very successfully used "When We Remember" as a useful platform for community talks, and as a gift to local hospices etc. This also gets you right in front of your target audience rather than paying to contact people who may be years away from needing you. (But we never know of course!)

I suppose the idea to keep in mind is that you need to -

1) Firstly find, and then get the attention of your target audience

2) Remind them (or create) the need and desire for your services, especially the benefits they will gain

3) Make it EASY for them to solve the problem / get help / feel better!

Hope this helps you. Please accept my best wishes and good luck with your efforts! Melissa