How To Get A Reporter s Attention For Your Book
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Other.
How to Grab a Reporter’s Attention for Your Book
Summary:
Reporters juggle numerous tasks daily, from managing phone calls to meeting tight deadlines. So, how can you cut through the noise and capture a reporter's attention for your book? With 15 years as a magazine journalist, I’ve taken countless pitches. Following these tips can make all the difference.1. Check Their Availability
Start every call by asking, "Is now a good time?" Never assume that if they answer, they’re not busy. They might be waiting on a critical call and couldn’t screen yours. When I was on deadline, the callers who impressed me checked if I was available. If I wasn’t, they politely hung up and called back later. That respect for my time made me more receptive when they did follow up.
2. Understand What Makes a Story
Writing a book doesn’t automatically make it newsworthy. Unless you have a unique angle?"like being a high-profile author or tying into a hot topic?"the fact that you wrote a book isn’t enough. However, if you make the bestseller list or have a timely connection, there’s potential for a story.
3. Connect Your Book to Current News
Stay informed on current events that relate to your book’s subject. Align your pitch with stories already in the news. For example, if your book is about government cronyism, during events like Hurricane Katrina you could offer insights into similar past occurrences. Include simple bullet points in your press release to highlight your expertise, making you a desirable interview candidate.
Novels can benefit too, like Alice Sebold’s "The Lovely Bones," which gained attention due to concurrent high-profile missing persons cases.
4. Engage and Build Relationships
If a reporter isn’t interested initially, don’t just hang up. Have a friendly chat and ask about stories they’re working on. Building a relationship with them helps you understand what’s newsworthy and creates opportunities for future pitches. Good media contacts are invaluable, and a mutually beneficial relationship can make a reporter’s job easier.
Follow Up Consistently
Always follow up on press releases. Assuming someone will call if interested is a mistake; your release could easily be overlooked. By following up, you increase your chances of being noticed and learn valuable insights for future marketing efforts.
By adopting these strategies, you can effectively break through the chaos and get a reporter to recognize your book’s potential.
© 2005 Sophfronia Scott
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