Phone Pitching 101

The best way to get media coverage is to make some calls. But before you pick up the phone, be sure you are ready. If you make a bad impression, you will have a very difficult time getting through to that reporter, writer or producer again. With this in mind, here are three, basic tips to remember in your pitching efforts:

• Research. What are you going to say? Be sure you have done your research and know why your pitch is newsworthy, unique and important to each reporter you are going to contact. Write down key talking points in advance so you can easily access important information. Also prepare several story angles in case the reporter is not interested in your first pitch.

• Practice. If you are new to public relations, practice how you are going to give your pitch. Have a co-worker, friend or family member listen to your story angle and give a critique. This will uncover areas that need improvement and help build your confidence-level.

• Be Succinct. Media members are always on deadline and very busy. Keep your pitches short and succinct. Talk about the most unique, newsworthy items first. And if a reporter does not have time to talk to you, get off the phone. Or, if you need to leave a message, keep it short. Try to think how you would like to be treated if you were that person and act accordingly. After all, reporters are people too!

It can take some time to figure out your pitching style and what works best for you. Once you have made some calls and talked to reporters, it will get easier. 

Also, don’t worry if it takes some time to get through to larger media venues. Do the appropriate follow-up and keep a positive attitude. You may not be right for a current project, but that doesn’t mean the door is closed on future media opportunities.

By Melanie Rembrandt