Want to Make a Big Splash? Set a Guinness World Record
They did what?
The “kicker file” is one of the most mutually accessible ways of getting national or international media attention, even if you generally don’t deserve it. At the end of most newscasts is a lighthearted look at something funny happening around the world. These sections also exist in large circulation newspapers and magazines. Your business or cause may not be able to penetrate the front page with hard news that you can control, but you may be able to shine a friendly light if you are willing to be a bit goofy and use a commonly popular topic to your advantage.
Take the World’s Largest Snowwoman for example. Bethel, Maine had already set the world record (as deemed by Guinness) for world’s largest Snowman and simply beating their old record might not get past the editorial desk, so what to do? Capitalize on the interest in gender issues and build a snowwoman instead! Yes it’s kind of ridiculous, but still rallies the community, gets people to talk, and interests editors all over the globe. Give it lipstick, eyelashes, wider hips (I guess) and bam – you’ve got a snowwoman. Along the way the region is highlighted as a top winter destination and people from far and wide come to see it.
The majority of the resources to build it were donated. I was lucky enough to help out and also represented the local ski area at the unveiling. Got to hang out with Senator Olympia Snowe too. Yes, that’s her name. Check the video.
