The Art of the Pitch: Making Your Financial News Irresistible to Media
News hijacking—seizing the moment to insert your client’s perspective into breaking news—is a powerful PR tactic. But it requires precision and timing. Journalists are under pressure to deliver stories quickly, and they need credible sources they can rely on.
Spot the story before it breaks
Keep a close eye on industry news. Be ready to provide insightful commentary as soon as the story emerges. Speed is critical, as Gerrie Spaansen points out: “If you’re not fast, the opportunity is gone. Journalists need immediate, relevant input,” says Gerrie Spaansen, Director and PR Consultant at Sharpe International.
Tips for pitching content to journalists:
- Use news monitoring tools:
Media monitoring tools offer effective ways to stay ahead of the news cycle. Identify stories where your company’s expertise can add value. - Tailor your pitch:
Research the journalist and the outlet before pitching. Customize your message to fit their needs and interests. - Be concise and relevant:
Get to the point quickly. Include only the most relevant information and avoid fluff. - Offer exclusive content:
Provide journalists with exclusive data or insights that they can’t find elsewhere. This increases the likelihood of coverage. - Build relationships:
Maintain regular contact with key journalists. This can be as simple as sharing useful information or inviting them to events.
Be a reliable source
Build relationships by consistently offering valuable content. Over time, journalists will see you as a go-to source, increasing your chances of media coverage.
Want your financial news to make headlines? Sharpe International can help you craft compelling content that stands out to journalists. With our deep understanding of the financial media landscape, we ensure your message reaches the right audience at the right time.
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