There is something we can all be doing to get media fit and ready for 2026. I am a big believer in the one percenter, the little things that make a big difference to building profile and authority in your communications.

While we do take this time out to refresh and energise our batteries it’s a good time to prepare for the year ahead. In Australia, it sometimes feels like we really don’t go back to work till after Australia Day. Before you know it school is back, February is in play, and it will be Easter before you know it.

Identify GOALS

Document some goals you want to achieve in 2026. It might be a TV appearance, an Opinion Editorial in a major masthead newspaper, be a guest on podcasts, start a podcast, get to a #MeetTheMedia, regular radio gig, up your engagement on LinkedIn and YouTube, write a book, prepare a monthly newsletter. It doesn’t have to be a long and exhaustive list but make sure Hold yourself accountable.

Plan out your year

Plan out how you are going to do this. Set aside time in your calendar to work on you, this might be two or three hours per month that you put aside to bring these goals into play. Seek help and support from trusted resources that will guide you, and use this time to identify opportunities where your skills and expertise fit.

Rev up that content engine

Start your content engine. Everyone has one in them you just need to find the keys and get it started. Writing headlines, blogs, Op-Ed’s, find your voice, your opinion and position on matters in your industry. Use AI to help start ideas and stories that you can be a part of but never rely on it or use it excessively. Media wants original content not morphed mashed up views of others.

Understand your audience

Identify your audience and where they consume content. Do they pick up the paper in a cafe? Do they listen to podcasts? Are they consumers of media via TV or online? Do they trust some media more than others? Are they talkback listeners? If you don’t know ask a few of your clients, what media do they consume? They will give the answers you are looking but be assured whatever media you do they will see. Your own media channels will be where this earned content sits and where they will find you.

Don’t invest in fake media

Avoid the pretend media and the constant barrage of unsolicited messages you get from quasi marketing firms are pitching to be added to a feature, lists, or identifying you as a person to watch in 2026. These pay to play lists are embarrassing and deceptive to audience. If you have never heard of the media looking to feature you then dismiss immediately. The Australian Business Journal is just one of the many fake websites that sound real but are simply fake, and it doesn’t take much to work that out.

The little things done right now will have a lasting effect on your profile when you come to the end of the year.

Nic Hayes, Founder of Expert Registry

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