It’s rare for a journalist to turn a PR specialist down for a free lunch (assuming they’re allowed to take freebies); however, there are far better ways to make a lasting impression on a writer and help strengthen your media relations skills. So, next time you’re considering lunch with a journalist, try something new…something more authentic, in the great outdoors. A hike, a day of skiing, or a simple bike ride is a much better way to get to know local journalists, and it quickly shows them you’re not just interested in getting your clients ink (although, that’s probably the shallow truth). For example, every Wednesday I have a bike ride that meets in a local park at noon. All the walls and preconceptions between PR specialist and journalists quickly disappear when the ride starts. You might not talk about your clients, or their outlets at all, but you can almost guarantee they’ll answer the next email or call you send their way.