PRticles of Interest

I know what you are thinking, the dreaded pitch. I used to think this as well. I truly don’t like making pitch calls, but the key is getting past the first call. Once you do that, it gets easier as you go along. Here is what I learned this semester about creating the “perfect pitch.”

The first tip is to know your topic in-and-out. You can’t pitch a story unless you know the material. I once had a reporter listen to my pitch and then bombard me with a plethora of questions. I was shocked but I answered them all thoroughly with ease. You could tell his confidence in me grew and a few days later I saw his paper published a story on the topic. Reporters don’t want to listen to some uninformed telemarketer. They want someone who will give them the news.

My next tip is to find the story within the story. Take the press release and look for the statistics and content that stick out for you. Think like a reporter. What in this press release does the reporter want to hear? What is newsworthy and what will attract attention? These are the types of questions you need to ask yourself. Find the answer to these and your pitch will become much stronger.

Remember that you are providing a service to the reporters. You are giving them the news. Of course you are going to feel a little nervous, but try not to be. Most of the time, reporters are going to be happy for your calls. You are giving them options on their next story to report on.

Lastly, have a rough draft written out in front of you. There is nothing more embarrassing than making a cold call and forgetting a vital piece of information. Also, if a reporter questions you about something, make sure you have a copy of the press release available. Highlight important facts and statistics so the answers are right there for you.

Use these steps, like I have here at Tricom, and your pitch will become much better in the future.

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