When business owners think about public relations, they often imagine themselves on national television, getting articles printed in national media outlets, creating huge brand campaigns, or taking part in high-profile interviews. Then they think, I can’t afford that. Yes, you can! Sometimes the best PR move you can make is right in your own backyard. Start small then finish big.
At AZ Media Maven, we know that tapping into local media and community connections can build stronger brand recognition, deeper trust, and lasting relationships. We’ve done it with multiple clients who have been featured on Fox10, AZ Family, 12 News and ABC 15 or have been interviewed by multiple Arizona newspapers. Being part of the local conversation boosts visibility and makes your business real, relatable, and rooted in something bigger than itself.
Here’s why staying local can be a powerful PR strategy.
You become part of the community story
Local media is always looking for stories with a strong community angle. If your business is involved in a neighborhood event, sponsoring a school fundraiser, or supporting a local cause, there’s a good chance that story will resonate with local reporters and editors.
And the best part? Your story doesn’t have to be “huge” to matter. Something as simple as hosting a free workshop or teaming up with another local business can become a story worth sharing.
When you align your business with your community, you stop being just another brand. You become part of the narrative that matters to your audience.
Local coverage builds trust
Getting featured in a trusted local news outlet or newsletter builds credibility. People are more likely to engage with businesses they’ve seen mentioned in familiar sources, especially when those mentions highlight community involvement, milestones, or helpful expertise.
Whether it’s a quote in a neighborhood magazine or a spotlight in a local podcast, these small moments of exposure help reinforce the idea that you’re not just selling something. You’re invested in the same place your customers live, work, and raise their families.
It’s often easier to get media attention locally
Local reporters aren’t being pitched hundreds of times a day like national media outlets. That means your well-crafted pitch actually has a chance of being read and considered. Especially when your story has a clear tie-in to the area, a specific local impact, or a connection to something already in the news.
If you’ve never pitched to local media before, start small. Introduce yourself, share what you do, and let them know you’re available for quotes or commentary on relevant topics. It’s not just about landing one feature – it’s about starting a relationship. Press kits are a great way to start. Include information about your services or include an actual product if that is feasible. YOu can also include examples of newsworthy story ideas.
Need help crafting a pitch that gets noticed? Check out our blog Pitch-perfect: 5 ways to get local media to actually read your story.
Community engagement fuels word-of-mouth
PR isn’t always about press releases. Sometimes it’s about showing up. When your business is visible at local events, active in online groups, or collaborating with other local brands, you’re creating the kind of organic buzz that advertising money can’t buy.
People love to talk about businesses they’ve interacted with face to face, especially if that interaction was positive, unexpected, or generous. Supporting a cause, donating time or services, or simply being present goes a long way.
Local-first doesn’t mean small-time
Some businesses shy away from local PR because they think it’s not “big” enough. But local visibility often leads to larger opportunities. A mention in a neighborhood publication could catch the eye of a regional news outlet. A collaboration with a community influencer might open doors to a bigger audience.
In the world of public relations, every relationship counts—and local ones are often the most meaningful.
Go local!
Being local is more than geography. It’s about being seen, trusted, and remembered in the places that matter most. By connecting with local media and community networks, your business builds the kind of reputation that can’t be bought – only earned.
At AZ Media Maven, we believe in the power of local stories. Let us help you tell yours in a way that connects and resonates. Reach out today and let’s build something great, right where you are.
AZ Media Maven is based in Laveen, AZ, a suburban village in the greater Phoenix area. Owner Rose Tring has more than 30 years of journalism experience as an editor and writer, many of those years in business news. She created AZ Media Maven in 2012 to help other business owners succeed by effectively telling their stories through public relations and social media. Reach AZ Media Maven at azmediamaven@azmediamaven.com or call (602) 373-8371.
