By Julie Merten,
Star Publications, Sauk Centre, MN
Territory Marketing Representative
When I first came to Star Publications - Dairy Star three and a half years ago I was what one would call a “rookie” to the publishing industry. I had no prior experience working in the industry, but I did have a strong affinity for dairy cows and the dairy industry. Our motto is “All Dairy, All the Time” so it was a perfect fit! Since then, I have developed a greater understanding of the publishing industry through mentors and the MFCP MVP Program.
At our most recent June MVP Zoom Meeting we discussed the current state of the publishing industry and where we see the future headed. It was an honest discussion filled with lots of great insights. Here are a few of my key takeaways:
Reaching readers where they are at: While print media will always be the bread and butter of our publishing businesses it is increasingly important to reach readers where they are at. One way we discussed it was via online print e-editions. Some publications offer this as a free service while others charge a subscription fee. Having an active social media presence where you can link online stories is another great way to reach readers. Over the last couple of months Dairy Star has started up a Dairy Delivery Podcast. Listeners hear actual footage from interviews that were conducted. I am excited to see the podcast catch on and how listeners respond.
Print is here to stay: While the publishing industry may be evolving we firmly believe that print is here to stay. Our readers and CVC Audits continuously tell us that print is a trusted source of news and print ads work driving readers to view a customer’s website. Recently, my publication expanded our coverage area. I was amazed by how many businesses quickly jumped on board to advertise.
We are stronger together: Since becoming a part of the MVP group I have met many incredible mentors and learned valuable lessons. I believe everyone has something to gain from participating in the MFCP Network and attending a conference or event. I strongly encourage you to recommend your young employees for this group. MCN Network Ads are another way we are stronger together. Job hiring ads and auctions receive great feedback from participants in our network. Reach out to Lee Borkowski at director@mfcp.org for more information or to schedule a training session with your sales staff.
While the print publishing industry may be changing there is a lot to be proud of. Print is still very much “alive and well” and as an industry we will continue to grow and adapt to best serve our readers and customers.
Julie
Star Publications, Sauk Centre, MN
Territory Marketing Representative
When I first came to Star Publications - Dairy Star three and a half years ago I was what one would call a “rookie” to the publishing industry. I had no prior experience working in the industry, but I did have a strong affinity for dairy cows and the dairy industry. Our motto is “All Dairy, All the Time” so it was a perfect fit! Since then, I have developed a greater understanding of the publishing industry through mentors and the MFCP MVP Program.
At our most recent June MVP Zoom Meeting we discussed the current state of the publishing industry and where we see the future headed. It was an honest discussion filled with lots of great insights. Here are a few of my key takeaways:
Reaching readers where they are at: While print media will always be the bread and butter of our publishing businesses it is increasingly important to reach readers where they are at. One way we discussed it was via online print e-editions. Some publications offer this as a free service while others charge a subscription fee. Having an active social media presence where you can link online stories is another great way to reach readers. Over the last couple of months Dairy Star has started up a Dairy Delivery Podcast. Listeners hear actual footage from interviews that were conducted. I am excited to see the podcast catch on and how listeners respond.
Print is here to stay: While the publishing industry may be evolving we firmly believe that print is here to stay. Our readers and CVC Audits continuously tell us that print is a trusted source of news and print ads work driving readers to view a customer’s website. Recently, my publication expanded our coverage area. I was amazed by how many businesses quickly jumped on board to advertise.
We are stronger together: Since becoming a part of the MVP group I have met many incredible mentors and learned valuable lessons. I believe everyone has something to gain from participating in the MFCP Network and attending a conference or event. I strongly encourage you to recommend your young employees for this group. MCN Network Ads are another way we are stronger together. Job hiring ads and auctions receive great feedback from participants in our network. Reach out to Lee Borkowski at director@mfcp.org for more information or to schedule a training session with your sales staff.
While the print publishing industry may be changing there is a lot to be proud of. Print is still very much “alive and well” and as an industry we will continue to grow and adapt to best serve our readers and customers.
Julie