How to Pitch to the Media
Now that you have determined your story, it is time to begin pitching to the media.
It is important to know how to write your pitch and what type of pitch will work best for your announcement. One most common way to get noticed with the media is through a news release.
Pitching to the media takes patience, skill and the proper research. Start with finding target media outlets and then looking to see what journalists cover the topic areas that are appropriate for your company or pitch.
Consider the following:
•Look at past articles that reporters have written to see if they are the relevant contact. Don’t blast pitches to any and all reporters hoping they’ll be interested.
•Determine whether it’s appropriate to send a tailored pitch or a news release. Each pitch should be tailored to the reporter.
•Use a media relations specialist who has established relationships with reporters to help you get articles about your business placed in the right publications.
News Releases
A news release is one of the most common ways to pitch your story to the media. A news release can draw attention to your brand by attracting coverage on top news outlets and news aggregator websites and increasing traffic on internet search engines.
Companies are always developing new products and services, establishing new partnerships, or acquiring new business. Whatever the news, your company needs to make sure it’s heard. Use news releases to get maximum exposure for your announcements.
•Use news releases to announce new products, services and promotions.
•Send a relevant news release to targeted publications.
•Community involvement and other newsworthy business activities.
•Invite journalists use your news release as a springboard for other relevant articles.
•Distribute your news release through a wire service, such as PRWeb, and receive online pickups on other news aggregator sites.
Pitching and distributing a news release can be tricky, but the good news is that On The Marc Media can help. Next week we’ll share tips on writing a successful news release.
Related links:
6 Ways Public Relations Can Help Your Business
Make Your Media Pitch Perfect: Storytelling