1) Develop relationships with reporters, bloggers and other
media people through Twitter. Reporters and big-time bloggers
are incredibly active in social networks, especially when
gathering information for stories. Two resources that have a
great list of the media people on Twitter are:
Media Outlets and
Media People 2) Watch for tweets about editorial opportunities. Because the
nature of Twitter is very quick-response, it’s a great place for
media people to look for last-minute, additional resources for
their stories. When following bloggers and reporters on Twitter,
keep close track of their tweets and scan for any opportunities.
It’s also a great idea to send reporters tips to other links and
resources simply to be helpful and improve your relationship with
the media person, even if it’s in regard to another company. The
media person will be thankful for your help and more likely use
you as a reference when the subject is applicable to you!
3) Direct Message reporters instead of sending them an email.
By sending a direct message, you are forced to create a short
concise pitch that a reporter is more likely to read. Also, direct
messages are very casual, and some media folks prefer DMs to
email pitches. Also, it saves you the time it would normally take to
write a lengthy pitch. Remember, you can only DM people if they
follow you back. However, don’t pitch too much; they could easily
unfollow you making it much more difficult to connect.
4)
Use Twitter to check in on your media person before PR
pitching. Check to see what the person you’re about to pitch is up
to before contacting them. In the event that the person is sick,
having a bad day or away on travel-it may be best to contact him
or her at another time.