My First Blog

When we were asked if we would like the ability to blog on our website, I immediately agreed. I thought, "Wow, what a neat thing to do and I can talk, talk and talk some more!"

Now I don't know what to talk about! What would I have to say that others might possibly find interesting? So, I thought over things I have done lately. Like today, I had lunch with "the guys" from the newsroom. That in itself gave me lots of things to talk about!

Of course one of our topics was the almighty debate over what REALLY sells a newspaper.

Now, I do see their side of the story seeing that I come from a communication background which also includes writing for publications. The "guys" think that people only buy a newspaper for the stories it may contain. And yes, it is true that on days when a lead story above the fold is something tragic, we do have more rack sells and have to actually order more papers. But, I say their arguement is not completely true.

We still live in a time if someone is looking for a particular item or deal, they will pick up a newpaper to see what advertisers offer. Whether it is an automobile, home, appliance or clothing...people still pick up papers to "catch a deal."

This fact will never change. Where the physical placement of the print ad may change, such as website vs. daily print editions, the fact will always remain that some people prefer to see the deal in writing so they are able to refer back to the information at a later date.

For instance, the LLC recently made a transition in the TV Week that is included in each Sunday's edition. For the first time, we have allowed advertisements to be placed in this special section. The great "perk" to this particular location is that it sits around 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the same house. The very next Sunday, the same publication with the same ads are right back in the home, only with varying editorial content. These ads then serve as a reference point for readers. They will remember the advertisers included week after week and know where to turn when they need a particular item or service. Therefore, they will buy a paper for the advertising, not just the editorial content! Proving my theory that editorial content is not the only thing that sells a newspaper.

September 11, 2007 04:04 pm