Writing a media pitch is an important skill for individuals seeking media coverage for their work, products, or events. Writing a media pitch requires a strategic approach to grab the attention of journalists, influencers, and media outlets. In this article, I emphasized explicitly on media pitch. I also detailed the steps you must follow to craft a compelling media pitch with templates and examples if you have wondered how to write a media pitch that will make headlines. Here’s an expanded guide on how to write a media pitch, complete with practical examples and templates.
Key Points
- A well-crafted media pitch is crucial to having your story understood, covered, and promoted.
- A media pitch is a proposal submitted to journalists or media reporters that summarizes the relevance and worth of your story. The purpose is to persuade media outlets to cover the story.
- Three crucial stages in creating a good media pitch: Understand your audience’s preferences, determine the tone and style for your pitch letter, and ensure that your story is truly newsworthy.
- There is a difference between media pitches and press releases. Media pitches are simple ideas to journalists, but press releases provide full information about a story.
- A typical pitch email structure is presented, including an eye-catching introduction, product/project details, the story behind it, and a clear call to action.
Media Pitch
To put it simply, a media pitch is a short message or email sent to journalists, bloggers, or other media outlets to convince them to cover your story or news. The goal of a media pitch is to capture the recipients’ attention and persuade them (such as the press) that your topic is newsworthy. On the other hand, a strong media pitch is clear, short, and appealing, and it should contain enough information to appeal to the recipient’s interest in learning more.
Perhaps an article featuring your product or initiative can increase traffic to it. Similarly, if you aim it more precisely, you will reach more new target audiences. Media pitching is an invitation to spread the news about your new release or product.
Since your pitch letter will convey the importance of your story, along with special details that can catch a reporter’s eye, it can make or break your success.
Media pitches are more often taken for press releases. Though there is a striking similarity, these two are different altogether. The message each of these portrays is the confusion behind them. On the other hand, both of them try to convince the reader that the story is worth covering.
However, a media pitch directs outreach to journalists, presents a summary, and demonstrates the value of the story. On the other hand, a press release contains details and data about your story.
Tip: Writing a mind-blowing killer pitch media is the key to getting your story noticed and, afterward, covered and shared. It has to be articulate, catchy, and noteworthy. Likewise, if you have a specific story that you want to bring to the table, this guide will help you entirely.Media Pitch Examples
The best PR pitch examples provided by actual PR professionals showing how to write a pitch to a journalist can be found below. To help you create a successful media pitch, I’ve compiled a few examples
A pitch for a lifestyle media journalist from a mental health brand:
Subject line: New study shows that [Brand X] can reduce anxiety by 50%
Hi James,
I hope you are having a wonderful day. I wanted to share some great news with you regarding a new study we recently finished that presents how our therapy, [Brand X], can lower anxiety by 40%.
As someone who writes on mental health and wellness, I felt this would be of interest to you and your readers.
If you’re interested in learning more, please let me know and I’ll gladly send additional information, citations from our team, and any other resources you may need.
Sincerely,
Diehardt Frank.
Media pitch example #2
Introducing a cool story for Franklin & X publication!
Imagine a world where kids can learn about science in a fun and interactive way. Meet our new app, “Science Adventure”!
Subject line: Our app is not just another educational tool, but a thrilling experience that takes kids on a journey to explore the wonders of science.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Discover interactive games and puzzles that make learning fun.
- Join a community of young scientists who share their discoveries.
- Get exclusive access to expert advice from real scientists.
We want to share this exciting story with your audience! Let’s schedule an interview with our expert, Dr. Maria, to tell you more about it.
What do you say? Are you ready to embark on this Science Adventure?
Best regards,
Frank.
I crafted a customizable media pitch example template that you can refer to for more examples below this sub-section
Media Pitch Example #3
Breaking News: New Study Reveals the Secret to Happiness!
Discover how our mind-blowing research unlocks the key to a happier life.
Here’s the line: Our team of experts conducted a study, surveying thousands of people worldwide to identify the habits and traits of the happiest individuals.
Here’s what we found:
- Learn how gratitude practices boost happiness levels.
- Find out how social connections impact societal well-being.
- Get exclusive access to our happiness toolkit, packed with practical tips and resources.
We’re excited to share this uplifting story with your audience! Let’s schedule an interview with our lead researcher,
Dr. John, to share the inspiring findings.
Are you ready to spread some happiness?
Best regards,
Franklin.
How to Write Media Pitch
Do you want to know how to write a media pitch with practical examples and templates? I’ve already given out some practical examples if you have followed to this juncture. Let’s head over to the steps and see the necessary tips for a good media pitch
To craft out a compelling media pitch that will make headlines means putting your best into the pitch email. Conversely, to make it to the press, your media pitch needs to be engaging from start to finish. So now that we know what a media pitch is and what it should contain, let’s look at some tips on how to write an effective PR pitch email.
Ready? Let’s kick off!
#1. Make Sure Your Story is Newsworthy
Writing a media pitch is one thing and writing a newsworthy media pitch is entirely different. The difference in both lies in the story headline. Ask and survey your story to determine these three factors
- Is it interesting?
- Is it relevant?
- Is it timely?
However, if your story does not meet these criteria, the probability that journalists will be interested in covering it will be low. (10/100)
Of course, you can’t always choose what topic to work with. But it’s in your power to make the existing material as interesting as possible — it’s all about the approach.
#2. Verify the Correct Receiver and Tailor Your Outreach.
Sending your pitch to the right person increases the likelihood that an editor will read it, find your topic interesting and contact you for additional information. Moreover, you can use your media list to identify the recipient’s correct email address. To make your message more personal, consider mentioning something the individual has just done or posted, such as an encouraging social media post.
#3. Write a Compelling Email Subject Line
Presently, most media outlets no longer receive messages the traditional way. Since they receive pitches in email form, the subject line is basically your first approach to capture the attention of an editor or journalist. However, the subject line depends on the pitch and the purpose of your email, successful email subject lines often include:
- Simple language and terms, these include the subject of your pitch (keep it simple)
- Engaging words that suits the quality of pitch
- Questioning words or queries such as what, how, when and why.
#4. Don’t Forget to Add Your Own Touch
When sending a media pitch email, address the receiver by name and make sure your message is tailored to their unique needs and areas of interest. This, however, demonstrates your due diligence in your research and your appreciation for their time.
Furthermore, make your email personal rather than sending out a mass mailing that is generic. Say hello to them by name and bring up any past articles they’ve written or subjects they’ve covered that are relevant to your proposal.
Make sure you explain in detail why the receiver and their readers will find your pitch interesting. Afterward, think about how your narrative might help the readers or offer fresh perspectives that suit their interests.
#5. Create Your Call-to-Action.
A well-crafted call to action is a must. Since, you want to explain why this story is important, how it is relevant to the journalist’s audience, and stress your timing. This is your opportunity to remain focused on your audience, your journalist, and their readers.
#6. Update Your Media Pitch.
Your conclusion should overall be a simplified version of your pitch, presented in a different format. You can start by restating your call to action in a new and unique way, then add any remaining useful information or links that the journalist would find helpful, and then finally thank your media contact for their time. Equally, remember to sign off with a unique and respectful message.
#7. Proofread Carefully
Before sending your pitch, proofread it thoroughly for any grammatical errors, typos, or formatting issues. A polished pitch without mistakes reflects professionalism. To ensure that editors seriously consider your pitch, consider re-reading your pitch before submitting it to check for spelling, active voice, and grammatical errors. In addition, consider checking your subject line and any attachments you plan to include. Additionally, you can also have a colleague review your pitch for a second opinion.
Media Pitch Format
Refer to this template to help guide you when creating a media pitch:
- Subject: [Engaging subject line]
- Dear [Name of the recipient],
- [Add your lead here].
- [Include any necessary context for the lead here, such as a time peg or news peg].
- [Explain why the topic you’re pitching is valuable to the publication and its target audience].
- [Include a call-to-action, such as when an event is happening or highlighting an event’s significance].
- [Remind the journalist or editor of any previous contact you’ve had with their publication, if relevant].
- [Rephrase the call-to-action and include links if applicable to your topic].
- [Thank your recipient].
- [Use a professional signature],
- [Your name]
- [Your title, if it applies to your pitch]
- [Your contact information]
- [Your areas of expertise if it pertains to your proposed article]
- Notable published work: [two to three links to your published work, especially if it’s related to your pitch.
By following these tips and using the provided examples and templates, you can craft compelling media pitches that will increase your chances of securing media coverage for your story.
How Do You Submit a Media Pitch?
Follow these steps to pitch your press release to journalists:
- Craft out your pitch for distribution.
- Build your target media list.
- Write the perfect pitch.
- Write a compelling subject line.
- Personalize your email.
- Proofread carefully
- Hit send at the right time
How Do You Pitch Someone to the Media?
- Make sure your story is newsworthy.
- Make sure you’re pitching relevant media contacts.
- Write your subject line.
- Grab their attention early on.
- Write an email that connects.
- Make your call to action.
- Conclude your media pitch.
What Does a Media Pitch Look Like?
Here’s a sample media pitch email:
Subject Line: Exclusive: New app changing the paradigm of mental health support
Introduction:
Hi [Journalist’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], representing [Your Company].
The main hook:
We’ve developed a groundbreaking app that’s changing the mental health landscape.
Key Points:
- Our app connects users with certified therapists for instant support.
- It features AI-powered mood tracking and personalized resources.
- We’ve seen a 90% user engagement rate and 4.5-star ratings.
Call-to-Action:
I’d love to schedule an interview with our CEO to discuss this innovative solution.
Contact Information:
[Your Email] [Your Phone Number]Additional Resources:
[Link to Press Release] | [Link to App Demo]🤏Tip: Remember to keep your pitch concise, clear, and engaging, with a focus on the benefits and unique value of your story.Final Word
A media pitch can be written in a number of ways, and PR professionals occasionally have their own favorite technique. Nonetheless, the basic rules for creating a great pitch are the same, whether you’re writing a pitch letter for an event or a product launch.
Follow the guidelines and examples in this post and customize them to your news. With some time and experimentation, you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t.
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- Social Media Engagement: 7 Interactive Post Ideas That Helped Us.
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