Another way to get publicity is to print it! An interesting brochure has a way of getting into circulation with very little help. You should have a good brochure made about your product. This is part of the leave-behind material that can be used at many types of presentations.
Press releases are another way to gain timely publicity and promote a product. Always call the print or broadcast medium that you are targeting for press exposure. Find out what their lead times are for receiving information, and if they require any special format. Many publications are very interested in new products and have special sections that do nothing but feature new technology. Send these publications a "new product release." A new product release is more than a press release. It is a combination brochure, press release and media event all rolled into one. Always include a good color or black-and-white photograph when submitting a new product release. When submitting it to a TV station, it is advisable to first see if they want to do a "spot" on the invention. If not, try to submit at least 30 seconds of video on the product in still shots and in action. This may find its way onto the air as a filler piece on a slow news night.
There are many other ways to gain publicity and recognition for you and your invention. Many books have been written on the topic of promoting products with a variety of specialized techniques. I suggest you investigate this type of information. The important thing to remember is to always be on the lookout for the opportunity to promote your concept. Never be shy about your invention! If you don't toot your own horn, few others will (unless you pay them!).
The ultimate goal of publicity and promotion is to get people to know your product and feel comfortable with it. This, of course, leads them to purchase the product and use it, thus fulfilling your ultimate goal of creating something new and useful that people will buy.
