First, social media serves as their personal outlet for their insights about what they are covering. Second, they interact with their family, friends and fans on social media. And third, they get ideas for their next article on social media.
So brace yourself because the rumor that journalists can be contacted via Twitter is true! Here is how:
1. Check
the profile bio of a journalist if it says he is accepting story pitches from public relations practitioners
and businessmen. If yes, it is more likely that he is willing to read your pitch.
2. Follow
him at least before doing any move. It is very rude to ask for a favor from someone you have not engaged with. It is like asking a stranger to pay for your bills.
3. Interact with the journalist first before dropping the bomb. Re-tweet him and hit the
fav button. Reply or throw a comment if needed. But please, do not
act as if you are obsessed with him. Act naturally.
4. Once
he gets to notice you, you are a step closer! If the journalist follows back, gives you tweet mentions or replies, you have the reason to smile.
5. Go
back to your press release or story pitch. Make sure that it is worth the
journalist’s time. Modify it, addressing the journalist.
6. If
the email address of the journalist is in public, email the journalist with the
PR or story pitch. Mention that you found his contact details on Twitter, so he will be reminded that you have interacted with him on Twitter.
Once the email is sent, send a tweet to the journalist telling him that you’ve sent him a PR or story pitch. Be nice and patient to wait for replies.
Once the email is sent, send a tweet to the journalist telling him that you’ve sent him a PR or story pitch. Be nice and patient to wait for replies.
7. If
the email address of the journalist is not mentioned in his Twitter bio, message
him. Be polite in asking about the ways to send him a PR or story
pitch. Maybe he has other options to be reached- maybe a Google Docs file or a form
on his website.
8. Wait
for results. While waiting, never forget to still interact with the journalist. Do not do things that will irritate him. Follow up once only.
9. Thank
the journalist if he decides to use the PR or story pitch.
10. Do
not lose hope if the journalist says NO. Maybe the next PR is more interesting
to him. Nevertheless, interact with him as regular people.
One day, the journalist might ask you if you have
news stories that can be considered for publication. Now, that is the real thing! You just proved that you are not just marketing something; you have proven that you are a credible source of information.
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