Secrets of the Media News Cycle: When and How to Pitch Your Release
When it comes to working with the media, staying on top of the media news cycle is going to be key to your success. Not sure what the media news cycle is? We’re talking about the 24/7 extravaganza where stories come to life across TV, radio, print, podcasts and online articles.
In this daily cycle, journalists and media outlets have more time than ever to delve into a diverse range of stories. So there’s lots of opportunity for your brand to stand out and secure some amazing coverage.
Keep reading as we pull back the curtain on the media news cycle and uncover the perfect timing to pitch your releases.
When it comes to catching the attention of journalists, timing is everything. Imagine a serene morning to lunchtime oasis in the hectic world of journalists. This is the sweet spot! These quiet moments are when journalists are more likely to sip their coffee, peruse their inboxes and embrace new ideas with open arms. So set your sights on this window of opportunity to make a memorable impression.
Let’s talk about the “no no zone” — holidays, weekends and Fridays. Journalists are busy embracing some well-deserved rest and relaxation during these times, making it harder to grab their attention.
Okay, so not then, when? According to insiders, Mondays are a good day for journalists as they embark on a brand new week full of possibilities. Capitalise on their renewed energy and enthusiasm by sharing your captivating stories at the start of the week. And keep this in mind: journalists prefer email communication over phone calls (According to a fabulous report by MediaNet)
But timing isn’t the only trick up our sleeves. Let’s take a peek inside the newsrooms, where pitch meetings fuel the fire of creative storytelling. TV news stations, for instance, often have scheduled broadcasts at 5, 6 and 7 PM. By planning your event or news announcement for mid-morning or mid-afternoon, you’ll have a front-row seat to catch the attention of news crews and secure the coverage you’ve been dreaming of.
“But why should I care about the news cycle?” you ask. Oh, darlings, you should care — a lot! Your story needs to be newsworthy, relevant and downright fascinating to capture the hearts of journalists and their audiences. Remember, it’s not just about your brand; it’s about the impact your piece of information will have on their readers or viewers. So let your imagination run wild, dream big and craft a story that will leave them begging for more.
To tap into the news cycle effectively, understanding where your content fits in is essential. Is it evergreen, tied to annual data, a once-in-a-lifetime event, a seasonal extravaganza or perhaps a local gem? Tailor your pitch to fit these categories and weave your story into a larger narrative or trend that journalists can’t resist.
Now let’s discuss how to make your pitch irresistible. Timing is key, but there’s more to it than that. Above all else, content is king! The heart and soul of your pitch should be a captivating story, bursting with excitement and tailored specifically to their needs. Be concise and captivating, painting a vivid picture of your story in just a few words. Show journalists the value by providing context, offering them a backstage pass to the deeper significance of your brand’s tale. And don’t forget to share your arsenal of multimedia assets — those high-resolution images, dazzling videos and other captivating materials that will make your story sparkle!
Before you hit “send”, remember to make it personal. Tailor your pitch to each specific media outlet and journalist you’re targeting. Show them you’ve done your homework and understand their beat or focus area. Trust us, they’ll appreciate the effort.
Now, here’s a little secret: adaptability is your secret weapon. The news landscape is like a quick-change artist, always ready to surprise us. So be flexible, ready to pivot at a moment’s notice and embrace any last-minute changes that might come your way. Your ability to adjust and accommodate will ensure your story remains in the spotlight.
So there you have it our wonderful PR professionals and brand managers, the enchanting world of the media news cycle. Embrace the power of timing, craft captivating stories, get straight to the point with your pitches and make your brand’s voice heard. Remember, every picture tells a story, and with your flair for storytelling, your brand will rise above the rest, captivating the journalist, media outlets and their audiences alike.
