There is something we can all be doing to get media fit and ready for 2026. I am a big believer in the one percenters, 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 do not 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.
Document your 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 does not have to be a long and exhaustive list but make sure Hold yourself accountable.
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.
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.
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 others more than some? Are they talkback listeners? If you do not know, ask your typical clients, what media do they consume? They will give you the answers you are looking for. Your own media channels will be where this earned content sits and where they will find you.
Avoid the pretend media and the constant barrage of unsolicited messages you get from quasi marketing firms that are pitching you 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 both your target market and your current audience. If you have never heard of the media looking to feature you then dismiss immediately. The Australian Business Journal is just one of devious fake media websites that sounds real but are simply not, and it does not take much to work that out.
2026 is a year to be real, be human, and to put yourself out there. There is no better time to get started than today.