When They Want More or Something Else
When the Reporter Asks for Something in Writing
This is a good sign, because it shows that they are interested. Write your pitch letter so that it sounds a lot like your "30-Second Pitch." The key difference with a letter is that you can elaborate a little more and add enticing details about the story. If your story has been printed in a non-competing publication, it's OK to include a copy of the article. Also be sure to remind your media contact that you are following up on a recent phone call and supplying information "as you requested." Media people get so many phone calls that It's difficult for them to remember who they talked to an hour ago.
When the Reporter is Interested, But Not in Your First Idea
"Assignment Desk, Bill Jenkins speaking."
"Good morning, Bill. This is Maria Ricardo calling to suggest a story idea. Is this a good time to talk?"
"Sure, go ahead."
"Pete, I know Channel 7 covers the minority community here in Chicago. I teach English as a second language at the South Side Community Center. We are receiving twice the number of requests from the business community for tutoring in local factories. In fact, we are adding four tutors, as a direct result of U.S. Census figures that show a huge increase in the Hispanic population. And there's a chance for you to get some good film footage of people working on the assembly line."
"We just did a story very similar to that one about two months ago. But we've been trying to tack down a story you might be able to help us with. We heard there's a huge increase in the number of Hispanic entrepreneurs on the South Side and we just haven't had the time to contact any of them. Do you think you could help us with this?"
"Sure. In fact, our agency offers tutoring sessions for some of those businesses. How many sources do you need?"
"About four would be great."
"Would it help you if we contacted them directly to first make sure they are willing to appear on camera? This would save you a lot of time if some of them are camera-shy and don't want to participate."
"That would be terrific."
"We'll get on this right away. Is it OK if I get back to you by Friday with at least four names of Hispanic entrepreneurs who will agree to be interviewed? If so, when is the best time to call you?"
"Anytime between 9 and 11 a.m. Thanks so much Maria. I'll talk to you then."
Notice the smart things Maria did. First, she mentioned that her agency offers tutoring programs for the entrepreneurs (one more chance for her to be included in the story). She also offered to contact the sources to ask if they will agree to be interviewed. Then she told the assignment editor that she will call him by Friday.
For more great tips and advice for keeping a reporter interested, even if not immediately see Special Report #25 "How to Pitch Reporters Over the Phone and Make Every Second Count"
