"In this five-part series, we navigate the importance of publicity in content creation, and illustrate how these two powerhouses can better work together to create captivating, timely and impactful stories. In part one, we discuss the role of a publicist and how they benefit writers and publications."

Considering many freelance journalists write dozens of stories per month, managing all of the moving parts requires self-discipline, creativity, flexibility — and the help of a reputable publicist. As entrepreneur, founder, president and publicist Kris Ruby explains, a PR professional who knows their stuff makes the job of a journalist easier. And in the best of situations, actually further a writer’s career by providing resources that elevate their work.

They speak the language of deliverables, urgency and access.

“Publicists speak the same language as journalists more-so than clients, so they understand the sense of urgency that comes with deadlines and filing stories and are able to give them what they need fast,” she continues. 

“A good publicist can also provide access to interviews with certain clients that may otherwise be hard to reach. If the interview is great, it can help a journalist’s career because they are the ones who landed the interview and wrote it the story. Publicists provide access, and journalists provide the stories that the public relies on. The two must work hand in hand.”