3 tips for successful phone pitching
Don’t assume all journalists prefer email pitches. Though many claim to, you might be able to sway some into opting for an old-school telephone call with these useful approaches.
Reporters and editors often say they prefer to be pitched via email as opposed to “annoying phone calls.”
Here’s why: Many public relations professionals simply don’t know how to pitch by phone.
It’s probably not their fault. I’d wager that their manager or mentor wasn’t properly trained. It’s a vicious cycle.
On behalf of PR pros everywhere, here’s a message for journalists:
Phone pitching is our best bet for creating a relationship with you—and securing coverage for our clients. Although you might prefer email, I don’t. If I had a nickel for every unreturned pitch I sent your way, I’d be typing this article on my iPad on my yacht.
Journalists continually complain about their flooded inboxes and emails going right to their junk folder. I understand, but I could use more clarification on how I can prevent my pitches from getting lost in all of that.
Here’s how PR pros can ease some of their fears of the phone:
1. Be authentic.
Authenticity is a fundamental relationship building block. Sometimes that concept gets lost in the pitching process.
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