After You Pitch: 3 Things You Should Do

So you have prepared for your big pitch to a reporter and actually contacted them.

Go you.

And now you wait -- and wait.

Let me say that every reporter isn't going to get back to you. I like to think that I responded to every query and pitch with a "no, thank you" if I didn't need it, but I can't be sure. With that said, sometimes reporters are interested in your story and no news is not good news.

But still, here are a few things you can do to follow up and none of them involve making a pest of yourself.

1. Call or email. If your sent your pitch via email and haven't heard anything back, call the reporter and leave a message as well. Vice versa if you called first; make sure that you email as a follow-up.
2. Peruse the news to see if anything related to your story was aired or published. What this means is that you follow news trends to see if something in your industry has been covered. That could be why reporters don't want to cover it again OR you can use it as as fresh leverage to show your pitch or topic is still relevant.
3. Take a look at your pitch again. See if there is anything you can do to improve for next time. Perhaps you can freshen up some statistics or throw in a new angle so that ultimately, you can pitch it again.

The moral of the story? Sometimes reporters don't respond. Every pitch doesn't necessarily get a "yes." But the great thing about that "yes" is that you only need one to get started. So don't give up.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and publicity strategist with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Before You Pitch: 5 Questions Reporters Will Ask

Reporters ask questions.

A lot of questions. I mean, it's their job -- to ask questions.

So, before you pitch to a reporter, understand that there will probably be lots of follow-up questions. But don't worry...questions means that they're interested so questions are good.

However, here are five things you should have ready for a reporter's inevitable questions:

1. Are you sure this is true? Make sure your claims are accurate. You say that your organization is the only one of its kind to do whatever it is that you do. Do your research to make sure that tidbit -- and anything else you come up with as part of your pitch -- is true.
2. Do you have any proof? Be ready to offer records, statistics or other verification. Reporters always want to know if and how you can back up your claims, so be ready with that information.
3. Is there someone we can talk to? Have a person who can be interviewed. Reporters want actual stories to cover, which means they will usually ask you if you have a person they can talk with further about your story. For example, if your organization provides wonderful service for kids, they're going to want to interview one of the kids about it.
4. Can we take photos/shoot video?  Good photos can make the difference between a brief or a blurb in a newspaper and a front page story OR a 15-second mention vs. a 1:50 package. Be sure you have options for some activity for the photog or videog to shoot.
5. Do you have a comment? Make sure you know what you're going to say. Have a few bullet points that essentially capture the essence of your story so that you can rattle it off to a reporter without flinching.

The moral of the story? Preparation is key.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and publicity strategist with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Be Your Own News Station

Social media is a fantastic tool.

And if you have news you believe a reporter would be interested in, you should definitely already be sharing it via your social media outlets.

We talk a lot about social media here -- how it works with traditional media, the elements that mirror traditional media and more.

Here are three ways you should be promoting your news via social media:

• Post a press release on your website. I love press releases. They're little snippets of history for your business or organization. Win a big award? Hire someone for a special position? Even if the media doesn't exactly care, you should share the news with people on your own.
• Record a video, post in on Youtube. Commemorate your own event. Make sure that the filming is smooth and edited and share it via your Facebook page, Twitter and LinkedIn.
• Post pics on Tumblr or Instagram. If your business or organization is more photo-oriented, a pic speaks a thousands words.

The moral of the story? You don't always have to rely on traditional media to get the word out.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

3 Ways Publicity Can Make You Money

We've established that getting news coverage -- minus the cost of perhaps paying someone to pitch your news -- is free.

But.

You do know that publicity can make you money, right?

Through publicity, you can:

• Ask  for donations.
• Publicize a new product.
• Generate buzz about a new program or an anniversary/continuing success of a current one.
  
  All of these can lead to bigger and better partnerships, more clients and more customers.

However, here are a few tips to keep in mind when you're using your publicity to promote your business or organization.

1. Make it about your audience, not about you. People ultimately want to know how what you're doing affects them -- or their community. Make sure people know the bigger picture of how they can help the situation or how what you're doing is going to make their lives better.
2. Don't talk up the competition. Focus only on what you do. You don't want to put yourself in a situation where you've given other people a part of your space.
3. Don't waste a moment of your interview. Make sure everything you tell the reporter is deliberate and has a purpose.

The moral of the story? If done correctly, your publicity will compel people to go to want to find out more about your business or organization, therefore increasing your reach and your potential to make more money for your business or organization.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Does Your Name Reflect What You Do?

You have an idea for a nonprofit or a business. It's inspired, it's divine.

So you name your organization, Sunshine for Life Corp.

That's beautiful. But what does it mean? And what does it say about what you do?

The reason why we're focusing on names today is because the name of your organization is the first thing a reporter -- or potential customer -- will see about you. Your name should either tell what you do or inspire some sort of curiosity where people will ask about what you do. It shouldn't flat out leave people confused.

If you do name your organization Sunshine for Life Corp., make sure you include a little tagline that says, "Health and Wellness Consulting/Personal Training." You need to include these details for a few reasons:

• It helps your search optimization. If a reporter is looking for someone to comment on health and training in your city, that's what they may Google to find contacts. If all you have on your site is "Sunshine for Life," who will find you without the specific name of your business?
• It helps people understand right off the bat what you do. With a name like Sunshine for Life Corp., you may get calls about generating solar energy. Make it clear what services you offer.
• It gives you a professional and expert touch.  If a reporter is looking for expert information, they are more likely to go with the organization that gives off an expert vibe, if you will. If they are looking for statistics on health and wellness in their area, Sunshine for Life Corp. may not necessarily convey that the organization has that information available. However, Sunshine for Life Health and Wellness is good. And Sunshine for Life Center for Health and Wellness is even better.

The moral of the story? Consider not just how the name you choose makes you feel and the meaning it has for you, but also how it presents your expertise to reporters -- and potential clients and customers -- looking for you.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Media is More Than Just the News

Alright, I know I talk about news. A lot.

But, there is definitely more to the media -- and getting your story told -- than the 5 p.m. news. Or your local newspaper.

There are documentary shows and reality shows, and even talk shows that still constitute the mainstream media, as well as magazine and specialty publications and radio shows. Not to mention the world of blogs and e-publications online.

Have you ever thought about pitching your story to one of those outlets. Consider these points when determining whether your story would be a good fit:

• Is it something that you read/watch/listen to regularly where you say to yourself, "I can comment on that" or "I have a story like that?"
• Do you know how to get in touch with someone to pitch your story to from that outlet?
• Is your story ready to publicized?

The moral of the story? There's more to media than just news -- and don't be discouraged if you haven't had any feedback from contacting news outlets. Check out other options.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

You're a Speaker, Author...How Do You Get in the News?

In this digital age, it's easier than ever to share information with the masses. It's a great thing because you have the platform to share your experiences and expertise.

So you've written a book and you're also a speaker. Naturally, you want to speak about your book. And just as naturally, you want a reporter to cover it.

Here are some things you should keep in mind when you're contacting reporters to cover your story:

• It's not enough that you've written a book. Millions of people have written books. What is the book about and why should people care?
• Don't harp on how much your book costs. Reporters are not there to help you sell them. They want your story.
• Reporters get lots of books to review. You may want to try a less traditional way of getting attention for your book.

The moral of the story? Just like with anything else, getting in the news takes a little work on your part. To get publicity for your book, you have to consider what sets you apart from the other authors and speakers out there.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

You Can't Get in the News EVERY Time

You've cracked the code. You know what makes the news, why and how.

Congratulations.

So now I'm going to share some advice with you, now that you have the power: don't abuse it.

The best way to tire a reporter out completely is to call/email/text/come by the office every time you *think* you have a new story.

No one person gets news coverage all the time -- at least not constantly from the same media outlet. Unless you're a celebrity who everyone loves to hate.

The moral of the story: If you're not such a celebrity, please understand that the same reporter will not cover you all the time. Instead, contact the reporter when you REALLY believe that you have something worthy of coverage.

And here's another tip. You don't have to contact the same media outlet every time. Switch it up; you'll increase your chances of getting coverage and diversify your media mentions a bit. Good luck.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Look Harder: The Story Behind the Story

Reporters like creative, unique stories. We have covered that fact time and time again.

So I would like to challenge you to think outside the box when you're considering what a reporter may be interested in about your story.

Ask yourself: Is there something about your story, beyond the fundraiser, beyond the annual workshop that could make for an even more interesting story? Something that uniquely belongs to your organization? Look at what you think your story is. And then look again.

If there is, begin to brainstorm about the best way to describe it and communicate it to a reporter to get coverage. The moral of the story? Be different. It's key to getting news coverage.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Now is the Time

So how long has it been now that you have known that your organization could use publicity yet you let event after event and initative after initiative pass by without a peep to the media?

Probably too long.

Each time you put it off, each time you say, "Maybe next time," you are delaying (if not eliminating completely) an opportunity to get the word out about your awesomeness.

The moral of the story? The time is now. Start your research and start figuring out what you need to do to get the news coverage to be the next big thing.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Say It in English

For those of us in professions where we routinely speak jargonese, it may cause a slight bubble of joy to explain whatever project is currently in the works.

But if no one outside your industry can understand what you mean, they are not feeling joy. In fact, as their eyes glaze over either in utter confusion or boredom, they may actually be in pain.

Though your knowledge of your industry and work may be impressive, save all the technical stuff for your next board meeting. When explaining your highly technical or complicated project to a reporter for a story, bottom line it.

What is special about it? How will it help people? What can you compare it to? I got this tip from a technology meeting I went to a few weeks ago that I thought would help as a pitch as well: "It's like ________ for  ________."  I.e., "It's like a file cabinet for your wallet." Isn't that much easier than saying, "It's a mini-organizer made for compartmentalizing your smaller items when you're in motion and have yet to experience the principles of inertia?"

The moral of the story? Consider that most of the time, your audience is not going to be in the same industry you are in. Make it plain. Say it in English. 


Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media relations consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Be the Perfect Source

I was browsing some of my old articles with a colleague recently and I came across a story. The headline: Clark County Would Be 'Flat Broke' If Tax Hike Ends.

My primary source in the story was then-Clark County Assistant Administrator Nathan Kennedy. And he -- as well as pretty much all of the folks there in the Clark County, Ohio Board of Commissioners Office -- was an awesome source.  He answered all of my questions as succinctly as possible. He was great with giving analogies and examples. And he just told like it was, which generated great quotes and headlines, i.e. the whole "flat broke" thing.

So if you want tips on how to be a great source that reporters can call over and over again, consider these things:

• Make your comments easy to understand. Remember that the person reading, watching or listening to your story most likely doesn't know the inner workings of your business or organization. Include the details later, but make sure you know how to summarize and give a great comment that can be referred to as a sound bite. It accurately captures the problem in just one or two sentences.
• Have facts and figures. How many times have I told you that reporters love statistics? Well, I'll say it again. We do. And Nate Kennedy's facts and figures led to this  lovely chart we published with the story.
• Be ready to offer solutions. One great thing about this particular story is that officials were willing to share how they were going to solve the problem. Don't identify a problem without some idea of a solution.

The moral of the story? Be a source that a reporter can feel comfortable calling and quoting. You will find that is makes for a much smoother relationship. And kudos to Commissioners Detrick, Hartley and Tackett, as well as Michelle, Megan and Lynn; you folks were the best.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

How You Can Get on the News

As you may know by now, we host a media relations foundation workshop that starts folks off with some tips about how they should pitch their stories.

Last week, we had the pleasure of being on L.E.A.R.N. for Life Consulting's BlogTalk radio show, talking about what nonprofits and small businesses can do to get their stories in the news. Check it out here.

We had a great time with LLC's Heather Butts, who asked some awesome questions about obtaining news coverage. To talk a listen to get advice about networking with reporters, tools you can use to get mentions in the media and what questions you should be asking yourself BEFORE you pitch your story.

Enjoy!

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

A New Spin On An Old Favorite

When it comes to news, sometimes the topics covered aren't all that new.

What I mean is: think about all the events, holidays, etc. that happen every year and they always get coverage. No reporter is going to stand up one Dec. 25 and say, "NO! I refuse to cover Christmas this year!" and stomp away.

Because these recurring events, holidays and the like are necessary to news coverage, reporters and editors are constantly trying to find a unique element to highlight. So, yes, it's yet ANOTHER Christmas play but this year, there are live animals in the manger from a local barnyard rescue mission. Awesome, right?

So when you consider pitching a not-so-new event, consider:

• What's unique or different about it this time?
• How is that difference going to affect the reporter's audience?
• Can you visually show any difference?

The moral of the story? There's absolutely nothing wrong with a new spin on an old favorite. When you're creating your media plan, take note of those dependable newsy things and figure out how you can offer a unique angle on them.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc.  Her background is in print journalism and she has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how they can get media attention for their programs and efforts. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Know When to Fold 'Em

Everyone has that one reporter that is impossible to contact. This person is so elusive that reaching out to them is like trying to catch the wind. So close, yet so far.

It may not be that this reporter talks to everyone on the planer except for, so don't take it personally. They may just legitimately be busy. If you have contacted this reporter several times by phone, email and/or smoke signal to no avail, it may be time to give it up.

I'm not suggesting that you don't pitch to the reporter anymore; I'm saying that instead of trying to get the one-on-one that is escaping you, just add them to your email list and continue to send great pitches and/or releases their way.

The moral of the story? Put your information out there concisely and consistently, but don't make yourself a pest. When something interests them, they will call. 

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism. 

You've Got the Interview...Now What?

Your day has come. You have pitched and reported called you back.

Here's your moment to shout, "Yay!"

But after that, here are three tips to keep you on track during your interview:

1. Don't spend a whole lot of time talking about your competitors. This holds true if you're a business or organization or whatever. This is your moment to shine. Instead of blatantly saying, "Company X doesn't do this..." simply focus on whatever it is that you do.
2. Listen to the interviewers' question...and answer it. Do this to the best of your ability and stay on track. Nobody likes a rambler.
3. Have an idea of what you're going to say before the interview. Make a list of three to five succinct points that you know you want to make and don't stray too far from those points.

At the end of it all, your dynamic interview will become a dynamic story.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism. 

Social Media Trends Can Influence the News

By now, you know that Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and other social media outlets can dominate the news just as well as anything.

And if you pay attention, you just may be able to get on that bandwagon by pitching something related.

For example, over the last few weeks, I've been seeing more reporter queries about Pinterest. How are people using it? Are wedding planners using it? Job seekers?

The moral of the story? Remember to keep an eye on trends that you can use to pitch your own story. Reporters are also looking for some new angle to cover.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

Being Friendly Goes a Long Way

Though we live in a world where everyone wants everything yesterday, keep in mind that being patient and polite when it comes to handling a reporter still goes a long way.

When you call the newsroom, a simple "hello" is a good thing to say before you start rattling off how someone can help you. You don't have to engage them in a full-on conversation -- after all, they are busy -- but you can at least give a friendly greeting. Say "thank you" when they give you the information you need.

The moral of the story: reporters and editors are more likely to want to deal with you again if their memories of you are tainted with rudeness. And no one wants to reunite with a nasty attitude.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.

How to Decide Where to Pitch

I once said that to figure out what reporters want, you should watch the news.

In a similar fashion, you should also do research when deciding where to pitch to media outlets other than general news.

What does that mean? We're talking about your industry magazines, your trade publications or whatever else you read, watch or click where you see a story and you say to yourself, "I can talk about that" or "I can do/have done that."

The moral of the story? No random pitching. Each press release and contact you send it to should have a purpose.

Are Reporters Looking for You on Facebook?

Sometimes reporters request submissions via Facebook.

The answer is...maybe.

There are several media outlets that have Facebook pages now, including the Associated Press (AP), Good Morning America and my former newspaper, The Springfield News-Sun. Ditto for Twitter feeds, if you care to do a search for your favorite media outlets and/or programs.

There are instances where outlets look for sources and stories via social media such as Facebook and Twitter. As an example, if someone dies and a Facebook group springs up in their memory, reporters have been known to go there for quotes or to find people who knew the person to interview.

Reporters will also post questions about certain subjects if they want feedback for their story. "Have you been affected by high gas prices and  you're unemployed? Email us at reporter@yournews.com." Or something similar on Twitter, in 140 characters of course.

The answer to the question is that yes, you could use Facebook, Twitter and other social media to get your story out there -- If you have what they're looking for.

Bridgette Outten is a journalist and media consultant with The Write Vision Group, Inc. With a background in print media, she has written thousands of articles for newspapers and online publications. At The Write Vision Group, Bridgette consults with nonprofits and small businesses about how to get their programs and efforts in the news. Meanwhile, she blogs on all things journalism.