Cision’s Media Research team works daily to maintain a database of more than 1.6 million journalists and media professionals. In addition to accurate contact information, we strive to obtain pitching tips to help ensure the most useful pitches reach the most interested journalists. Here are a few tips we’ve collected to successfully pitch journalists at the fast-paced New York Post.
The Early (and Quick) Bird Gets the Story
Journalists are always under pressure and the next deadline is never far away, so this cardinal point of pitching rarely changes. Pitch early so they have time to give your pitch attention. Brevity is king – no matter how early you get to them, reporters don’t have much time so make sure you’re clear and concise.
Friendliness and Flexibility Will Get You Far
Reporters can usually tell pretty quickly if they’ll be able to use a story or not. Don’t be pushy if they aren’t interested, or you may not get another shot. The more you and a journalist understand each other and develop a rapport, the more likely they are to use your pitch. Which leads us to…
Know Who You’re Pitching
One surefire way to make your pitch attractive is if it already sounds like something the paper would run. The New York Post has a definite tone, and its reporters have their own voices as well. Helping a reporter by matching your pitch to their style means they’re much more likely to use it.
Pitch the Idea
Remember that reporters write stories, so pitch ideas, not clients. Make sure you include why readers would be interested and how your information would benefit them.
See the Big Picture
Many smaller newspapers require that a story be local, but the Post has a national readership, so even regional stories need a national context. Know your story, and be able to explain how it fits in a wider view.
Send a Scoop
Exclusivity is key and reporters aren’t interested in stories somebody else is already writing. This is one of the most frequently cited tips we hear from New York Post reporters. Press releases and conference calls will probably get ignored, but an exclusive tip or interview will likely lead to a story.
Know When To Call
Almost every reporter at the Post will tell you they prefer to be pitched via email – but most will agree there are times when a call is best. Breaking stories and urgent developments are a good bet, but calling to see when your story will be written or in the late afternoon and evening without a clear need are a good way to ruin a relationship. A handful of reporters don’t mind follow-up calls after a pitch, but it’s a good idea to check their preferences in the Cision’s database.
The Cision Media Research Team maintains a database of more than 1.6 million records, including social influencers, traditional media contacts, outlets and opportunities. We collect and maintain the latest contact and pitching information of bloggers and journalists who can spread your message, broaden your campaign and help you build relationships with the people who matter. To experience the Cision Media Database first hand, request a demo here.
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