You have probably already reviewed your topic, message and developed confidence in relaying it to others. The next step in this process is the one that many dread and some even hate: pitching your message to the media.



Here are some methods of pitching to the media

1. Never pitch yourself. When you are pitching to the media pitch your message not yourself. Friedman says, Focus your pitches on THE ISSUE that you are an expert on. For example, if you are a mortgage broker pitch a show idea or story about the best way to finance a home in todays market. Pitch the issue and grab the attention of the journalist or producer. Make sure to deliver what they want: a hot story tied to the news.

2. Be careful not to pitch your product. If you are a product manufacturer it is very important that when you are pitching to the media that you do not focus the pitch on your companys product or service. Friedman says, Focus on the problem or issue that your product can fix. Dont keep harping on about your product on its own. You will lose their interest. If you manufacture a diet product pitch a show or story on the obesity problems Americans and their children are faced with today.

Again, producers and journalists shy away from pitches that sound like infomercials and it is an instant turn-off to their audience.

3.Supply facts to the media. Although the media will do their own homework - dont rely solely on the results of their research. Friedman says, Give them with your data in advance. Especially if you have a controversial or difficult to understand topic. When you are pitching it is useful to have as many facts ready to use as possible.

A busy producer may not be willing to take the time to hear your story if it is explained in a difficult to understand manner. The more explaining, the higher the chance you will be turned down. Make it concise and full of quality.

4.Call in some backup. If you are topic is controversial then have some like minded friends or colleagues that can join you when you are a guest for backup.

Friedman says, If youre pitching a controversial topic to a radio or TV show, select the guests you want to appear with you. This gives you more control of the segment and ensures your message will gain acceptance from the audience.

If you do not have suggested guests to pitch to the producer, and they pick it up, you may just be setting yourself up for an on-air ambush, which if you are not prepared, can land you in deep water.

Hopefully these tips will help you get out there today and start pitching!