It is always a safe bet to create a targeted media list before you approach the media. The effort you take to do this now will save you time, energy and money while ensuring the best results.             Successful media lists:1)     Contain different media outlets2)     Has the ability to organize media responses3)     Are capable of analyzing your data Here are the best points to consider when building a media list: •  Choose media appropriate for your business. Develop your contact database in advance. Know whom you are going to contact in advance. Don't wait until a breaking news event happens where the media needs an expert to start to figure out whom to contact. You'll want to make connections in advance. Click on this link to find out more resources: http://radio.about.com/cs/radiohowtos/a/blgetpublicity.htm?terms=careers+in+the+media•  Create Customer and Prospect Databases. When a potential reporter visits your web site, have them fill out their name, contact information and company or lifestyle  information. You can build a prospect list easily and inexpensively this way, as well as monitor how people are using your site and what gets their attention. http://www.how-to.com/Operations/press-kit.htm offers tips on how to nurture your media relationships.•  Use the Internet as a tool as well as the yellow pages. Include local, regional and national media for your list as well as radio and television stations that would fit in with what you are trying to publicize. Click on  http://www.laf.org/atf/cf/{37FC106E-6A37-43B2-A961-078B884C94}/PPCommKit%20-     %20How%20to%20Pitch%20Stories%20to%20the%20Media.pdf#search='how%20to%20create%20media%20list' for further details on media-listings.•  Think outside the box in media list building. The list can include state or local bureaus of national wire services such as the Associated Press.  You may be able to obtain listings from a convention or civic center, Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade, news wire or press clipping service, advertising or public relations agency or press club. Check Bacons’ Media Directory for a comprehensive lsiting at your local library.To find out further tips: http://www.eweek.org/2002/Media/medialst.shtml•  Consider hiring a professional  media list builder. Sometimes it pays to hire aprofessional. When do you know you need help? For urgent news releases, crisis communications, pitches in a new market or even anytime your team is overloaded.   Get-it-Done: To learn more about hiring a professional to build your media list consult http://www.bulldogreporter.com/mediabase/    Tips & Tactics             1)  Organize. Separate your local, regional and national media listings.            2)  Add different types of media. Don’t forget about trade journals, newsletters, and the internet.            3)  Database your contacts. Utilize a database software program to help you keep track of who and when you contact them and the reasons of your “pitch.”            4)  Learn from your colleagues. What are other businesses doing to create effective media lists? Exchange ideas. With these tips you are on your way to create and implement a media list that will work for you and your business.