Packed with valuable articles for everyone. Here is an example of one short article from the January/February 2001 issue:
Magic Phrases the Media Love
"How can I help you?"
Those are the five magic words you should ask any media person you come in contact with. As a former newspaper editor, I can assure you that almost NO ONE asks that question. Instead, many people who want stories written about them mistakenly beg, plead, grovel, cajole and make pests of themselves.
To get in the media's good graces, here are magic phrases you can use if you have a reporter on the phone, or your writing a pitch letter to an editor.
"I can provide other sources for your story."
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Reporters love this because they don't have to work hard tracking down other people for multiple-source stories. Sometimes this is the only way you will be mentioned in a story.
"When is your deadline?"
This shows you are respectful of their time. It also gives you a good idea of how quickly you might have to provide information if they call you unexpectedly for information.
"What other information are you looking for?"
If you can lead the reporter in the right direction, you'll earn valuable points.
"I have written material which I can provide."
Reporters often appreciate having information in writing so they can refer to it later. It also helps improve accuracy.
"I can provide graphic illustrations you might want to consider to accompany your story."
Print media like things such as maps, pie charts, illustrations, and other graphics. You will save them valuable time if you can provide these, or at the very least, the information that be used for an illustration.
"Would you like me to send a media kit so you can review it before the interview?"
This is a thoughtful gesture. It helps reporters prepare.
"Would you like me to provide a list of questions you can ask me?"
Ask this question only of broadcast media such as radio talk show hosts. Never ask print media if they need questions, or they will be insulted.
"Please call on me for other story ideas on this topic."
Reporters and editors will welcome this, and they will probably take you up on your offer.
"Do you need a photo to accompany this story?"
Busy reporters sometimes treat photos as an afterthought and will appreciate this reminder.
"Who else do you write for?"
Ask this question of freelance writers. If they write on other topics that you can help them with, they'll want to make note of that in their files.
A good rule of thumb to remember is to be as helpful as you possibly can. Position yourself as someone who makes it easy for the media to do their jobs, and they wont forget you.
Would you like to get over 175 more pages of articles like this?
- Let the Media Know How to Contact Your Experts
- Best, Worst of PR
- 12 Tips for Writing Articles Editors Will Love
- How to Get on the Airwaves
- 10 Commandments of Phone Pitching
- Creative Publicity for Creative People
- Help for Hounds
- Advice from Alex Carroll, Radio Talk Show Expert
- Seasonal Story Ideas
...and that's just one issue!
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Publicity Hound Print Newsletter
Posted June 29, 2004
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