Timing and tone are key to a successful PR pitch

A former TV producer shares insights into gaining favor—and getting your story told

For the better part of four years, I had the good fortune to work as a producer on “Our Region’s Business,” a terrific regional affairs program that airs on NBC affiliate stations in four states just before “Meet the Press” every Sunday morning. It was a great experience for a lot of reasons, not the least of which are the lessons I learned about pitching the media.

The world of public relations looks a bit alien and can leave you scratching your head or contemplating suicide/homicide when you’re on the receiving end of those pitch phone calls and e-mails. Once my name appeared in the closing credits of the program, I quickly learned that the pitches would come from every direction.