Getting your story to local news requires a strategic approach.
Table of contents
Crafting Your Pitch
First, identify why your story matters.
- Timeliness: Is it happening now?
- Local Relevance: Does it affect the community?
- Human Interest: Is there an emotional connection?
Go beyond the PR email. Explain the story’s importance and your connection. Include photos and offer to answer questions.
Contacting News Outlets
Visit the news station’s website and find their “news tips” section. Alternatively, email or mail your tip, providing detailed information. Weekend calls might be effective due to understaffing.
Key Elements
- A compelling headline.
- Concise summary.
Remember, local news thrives on timeliness, relevance, human interest, conflict/solution, and novelty. Don’t be discouraged if your story isn’t immediately published; resources are often limited.
Getting your story to local news requires a strategic approach.
First, identify why your story matters.
- Timeliness: Is it happening now?
- Local Relevance: Does it affect the community?
- Human Interest: Is there an emotional connection?
Go beyond the PR email. Explain the story’s importance and your connection. Include photos and offer to answer questions.
Visit the news station’s website and find their “news tips” section. Alternatively, email or mail your tip, providing detailed information. Weekend calls might be effective due to understaffing.
- A compelling headline.
- Concise summary.
Remember, local news thrives on timeliness, relevance, human interest, conflict/solution, and novelty. Don’t be discouraged if your story isn’t immediately published; resources are often limited.
Following Up and Building Relationships
After submitting your story, don’t be afraid to follow up. A polite email or phone call can help your pitch stand out. However, avoid being pushy or demanding. Understand that newsrooms are busy, and your story might not be a priority at that moment.
Building relationships with local journalists can also significantly increase your chances of getting future stories covered. Attend community events, read their articles, and engage with them on social media (professionally, of course). When you have a genuine connection with a reporter, they’re more likely to consider your story ideas.
What Makes a Story “Newsworthy”?
Understanding what editors and journalists consider “newsworthy” is crucial. Here are some additional factors to consider:
- Impact: How many people are affected by the story? The larger the impact, the more newsworthy it is.
- Proximity: Is the story happening in the local community? Local news focuses on local issues.
- Prominence: Does the story involve well-known people or organizations?
- Conflict: Does the story involve disagreement, debate, or controversy?
- Unusualness: Is the story something out of the ordinary or unexpected?
- Currency: Is the story related to a current trend or event?
Tips for Writing a Strong Pitch
Your initial pitch is your first impression, so make it count. Here are some tips for crafting a compelling pitch:
- Start with a strong hook: Grab the editor’s attention immediately.
- Keep it concise: Get to the point quickly and avoid unnecessary details;
- Highlight the key facts: Who, what, when, where, why, and how.
- Explain the impact: Why should the audience care?
- Include visuals: Photos and videos can significantly enhance your pitch.
- Proofread carefully: Errors can damage your credibility.
- Provide contact information: Make it easy for the reporter to reach you.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of successfully reporting your story to the local news and getting the coverage you deserve.
