Media Relations Tips

Ever wonder why some stories make it into the newspaper and others don't? Here are a few helpful hints that will increase the chances that your next pitch will be a home run.

Respond quickly. In the news business, timeliness is next to godliness. The company that gets quoted the most will be the one that recognizes the realities of newsroom deadlines and delivers research, insights and quotes quickly.

Give them art. The difference between a story that gets covered and one that doesn't is often the availability of quality photos, slides, charts or graphs.

Good headlines/leads. Because an editor's attention span is short, a snappy headline and lead is imperative. A weak headline - even on a good story idea - could kill an editor's interest and your story.

Don't issue a news release when a phone call would do. Rather than write a news release that will eventually be rewritten by even the most junior-level reporter, consider other methods for releasing news. Here are a few ideas - call an editor, issue a story ideas tip sheet or write a summary sheet with bullet points.

Keep it short, simple and understandable. Big words don't work well with reporters and editors. They have limited time and space to explain things and need sources who can communicate in simple terms. People who succeed as media sources know how to simplify complex arguments in very simple terms.

Strong writing sets you apart. Stick to a journalist style. Limit the hype and hyperbole.

This article was provided by Hetrick Communications, Inc. Copyright 2003. All rights reserved.

Edited by Robyn Kelly, Web Publications Manager: rkelly@iac.in.gov.
The IAC, a public catalyst, partner, and investor in the arts, serves the citizens of Indiana by funding, promoting, and expanding the arts. Funding is provided by the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.