How should I write a pitch letter?
The pitch letter should include just enough information to make the story sound interesting without giving everything away. The style should be written cleverly and be entertaining to read. If the pitch letter is interesting to the journalist, then most likely, she will want to know the rest of the story and will be interested in learning more, and possibly reporting on the story in the news. Keep the tone professional and friendly.

The best way to learn how to create a successful pitch letter is to obtain examples of other pitch letters; the Internet is a good resource. Read the different pitch letters you can find to see what works and what doesn't work and why.

If a pitch letter is too lengthy or is without a clear purpose, then it may not have been successful. If you are bored with a pitch letter, probably other people were too. If you read a pitch letter and find yourself wanting to know more about the story, then it's quite possible that it was a successful pitch letter.

After reading several different pitch letters, you will probably begin to feel how they should be written in order to be successful.

Remember to start off the pitch letter with a sentence or two that will make the reader think something other than, "Not this again." Introduce an interesting fact that ties into the story that many people don't know or write it as a question.

Throughout the pitch letter, give the information straight to the point without nonsense. This is usually the way journalists think anyway. They like to report information that is concise and intriguing without lots of hype, so you should give them information in a similar way. If possible, you may want to hint at a fact or a piece of information but leave that actual information in the press release; if the journalist wants to know what you're referring to, she'll have to read the press release.

Also remember while writing to show how your story will relate to the journalist's audience, if applicable. This gives your story more of a reason for being reported by that particular journalist.

Can I use a pitch letter as a follow-up?
If you first call or e-mail a journalist to see if they are interested in your story, she will likely request that you send more information about it. Here is your chance to be creative and push your way to the top. Most people will send only the press release and maybe a note. But if you write a strong pitch letter to be part of your follow-up information, you're doing several good things.

First, you're reminding the busy journalist about the original contact you have already made. It's possible she has forgotten about your initial phone conversation or e-mail, and this reminder let's her know that you are serious about your story. Second, sending a pitch letter gives you a second chance to play up your story and remind the reporter of what a great story you have.

Just remember to keep your pitch letters short and to the point but have fun with it at the same.