4 Ways to Pick a Satellite Media Tour (SMT) Company

A satellite media tour can get your message in front of millions of people in a single day. Whether you’re promoting a product, sharing a public service announcement, or driving awareness for an event, choosing the right SMT partner is the secret to amplifying your impact. Let’s explore four critical factors to help you pick the right SMT company, and we’ll throw in a story to show how one smart decision can lead to media magic.

Use Case: From Local Effort to Nationwide Buzz

The founder of a small eco-friendly skincare brand had a loyal local following, but she wanted to expand her product’s reach. Aiming to launch a new product line, the founder partnered with an SMT company (which may or may not be us).

The partner helped her craft a compelling story, secure high-quality TV and radio interviews, and place spots on nationally syndicated programs across the country. In just one day, the brand had increased visibility by 67% and boosted recognition putting them top of mind for potential customer. The right SMT partner didn’t just share her message—they elevated her brand (okay, yes the SMT company is us!).

Selecting the Right SMT Partner

1. Experience is Non-Negotiable

   An SMT partner’s experience can make or break your campaign. Look for a company with a proven track record in your industry that understands your goals.

   Questions to Ask:

   • Have they worked with brands like yours?
   • What types of media outlets do they have access to?
   • Can they provide case studies or references?
2. Media Relationships Matter

   The best SMT companies have established relationships with top-tier outlets, from TV stations to online platforms. These connections ensure your story gets picked up where it matters most.

   Questions to Ask:

   • How strong are their relationships with local media?
   • Are they able to target audiences and amplify content?
3. Tailored Storytelling

   A cookie-cutter approach won’t cut it. A good SMT partner will take time to understand your brand, goals, and audience, crafting a narrative that resonates.

   Questions to Ask:

   • Do they create the editorial, scripting and message development?
   • How do they ensure your story aligns with current media trends?
4. Production and Execution Excellence

   From production through post, a seamless execution is critical. Look for a company that can set up interviews, shoot and edit video, and handle technical glitches – the right SMT partner ensures your project runs like clockwork.

   Questions to Ask:

   • What technology and tools do they use?
   • How do they manage unforeseen issues during live interviews?
   • What in-house audio/visual capabilities to they have?

The Research Checklist

Before signing with an SMT company, do your homework:

• Read Reviews: Explore testimonials and third-party reviews.
• Watch Their Work: Request examples of past SMTs they’ve handled.
• Discuss Costs: Transparency about pricing and deliverables is crucial.
• Evaluate Reach: Ensure they can access the markets you want to target.

What’s Your SMT Plan?

Before you get your SMT campaign started, prepare for these questions and take your brand to the next level:

• What’s your biggest goal for an SMT—brand awareness, product sales, or thought leadership?
• Have you identified the media markets most valuable to your campaign?
• What’s your story, and what do you want the world to take away from it?

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right SMT partner can be the difference between a one-day blip and a lasting media impression. Bridgenext offers expert storytelling, strategic solutions, and data-driven insights to create powerful brand narratives and achieve your business goals. Here are some of the recent media tours we have worked on. Ready to make media magic together? Contact us today to get started.