Ten Helpful Things to Know about Vocus:

1. Saved Searches help you search for results. Saved Searches:
•    are user specific
•    always save your searches to save yourself time
•    help you take advantage of the most up to date contact information

2. You can fine tune your saved searches:
•    DMA (covers all reporters in area, as opposed to restricting by address)
•    reporter preference
•    zip code & mile radius

3. You can turn your results into Lists:
•    contact names are saved
•    contact information is updated
•    always save your lists with your organization’s initials
•    manage lists (delete old lists)

4. You can customize Vocus:
•    custom columns
•    custom reports
•    preferences (tab views, e.g.)

5. You can export & create labels.

6. Email (quick, easy and free)
•    utilize the mail merge feature
•    de-dupe email addresses
•    temporarily change sender information

7. Fax (domestic fax is $0.13 per minute)
•    use your own letterhead or cover page

8. Create activities so you can track your correspondence
•    useful for tracking correspondence

9. You should always log out when you’re done with your Vocus session.

10. Tech support is readily available:
•    Instant Message from the Support section on the Vocus homepage
•    Call the Vocus toll free support at 1-866-675-2525
•    Call Nina Schwartz with Green Media Toolshed at 202-659-7710 x.10.

Other helpful features:

Google News search: shows stories written by each reporter
Data merges: to help personalize your emails
Logo Pasting: make your emails visually pleasing
Analytics: take a closer look at your media lists
Ed Cals: for longer lead pitching