Getting a Reporter’s Attention

Lets face it, one of the most important parts of franchise public relations, or public relations in general, is getting media attention.  You’ve got a great a pitch, fantastic story, well that’s just great, but what good will that do you without anyone to pitch it to?  Not much.  How do you go about getting the attention of that reporter that you just know will be the perfect one to pitch your story to?  Here are a few tips on getting that much needed reporter attention: 

1- Do your homework before hand:  Before you even think to pitch to a reporter do your homework.  Find out what the reporter typically covers.  You don’t want to be pitching a story about your client that is an author to a reporter that only covers sports.  Do some digging before hand to ensure that the reporter you choose to pitch to will be one that will at least have some interest in what you are about to pitch that way you will increase your odds that the reporter may at least be interested.

2- Check out the reporter’s blog:  If the reporter you are wanting to contact has a blog, consider posting a comment to their blog before your big pitch.  Show some interest in the reporter you are seeking to be in contact with and perhaps they'll show some interest in you.

3- Drop some of your expectations: Don't expect a reporter to give you coverage right away.  It might take longer than you may anticipate.  The best thing you can do is keep in touch regularly. If you are in public relations you know that that is just part of the PR job.  If you are doing PR for your own company or franchise or just starting out in PR remember not to get too ahead of yourself and expect coverage too fast.  It takes time, so do the follow ups and when the time is right you'll get some coverage.  

4- Consider the timing: As a franchise public relations firm we know that timing is everything.  Timing out you pitches is crucial.  To better your chances of a reporter covering your story you should consider approaching them on a Monday or whenever they tell you there is a bit of a news hole to fill.  That will just improve your odds of getting coverage.

5- Meeting with a reporter: These days we all rely on technology to connect with and contact one another.  When it comes to get attention from a reporter, nothing beats some face-to-face interaction if at all possible.  If a reporter says yes to meet for lunch, breakfast or even just for coffee, soak up all the time you can get.  A face-to-face meeting will help you form a better connection with that reporter.  It does guarantee you the coverage, but it surely increases your odds.  

Looking for more tips on getting a reporter's attention?  Feel free to comment below or contact us.