Journalists are contacted by PR practitioners every day, so it’s no wonder that after a while we all seem the same to them. So that’s why, when you do get in contact with a journalist, making a good impression is the most important thing. Get on the good side of a journalist and they may in fact be the one calling you.
PR Fuel has provided a few tips on how to be seen as a valuable contact to a journalist.
1. Research:
Make sure you know who you’re are calling before you pick up the phone. Get to know what type of pieces they write, what they are passionate about and what their professional background is (if possible). Also get to know the publication and what type of articles or stories they like to publish. Get to know who and what you are pitching to so you don’t waste their time or yours.
2. Return the calls:
If the time comes when a journalist is in fact ringing you for a story or a quote be sure to call them back if you miss their call. Be polite and call them back in a timely manner even if you have no information for them give them. Your relationship is a two-way street – if you want them to return your calls make sure you return theirs.
3. Be polite:
When you do need to follow up or call back a journalist, remember that they have deadlines. Always begin the call with “Is this a good time?”. Not only will it show that you are polite and courteous but it will also give them an easy way out if they are on deadline without a lot of small talk and time wasting.
Read the full article here.
Sydney Public Relations Agency, CP Communications provides specialist media, traditional and online PR strategies that get amazing results. Contact us today. For more great tips visit our website www.cpcommunications.com.au.
