Recently I’ve been interviewing many media insiders about their work, and media in general. It’s one of my favorite subjects and I’m always interested in how things are changing.
Here’s an important Media tip to take to heart: It’s not about you.
Now, I know it seems like it should be about you. After all, you’ve been researching and writing your book for quite some time now. You have a business and you’ve been impacting others in a huge way. You are definitely a mover and a shaker. So how could it not be about you?
I know. I get it. But it isn’t about you, and this is one of the most difficult truths for many to embrace.
When pitching media, particularly top tier, national media, you have to put on a different hat. You have to think like a journalist, a producer or a publicist. Which means, are you part of a trend? Do you have a study or statistics you can quote? Have you conducted a study or poll that you can discuss? Are there others you can bring in to be a part of the story? You need to be able to answer the question, “Why you, why now?” because media is always asking that when they consider your story ideas.
What is the problem that you are the answer to? How do you help others? What is the value -added benefit that you and your book offers?
Answer these question and you may well be on your way to securing some great coverage!
To you success!
Joanne
P.S. If you haven’t already done so, take the How Media Savvy are you Assessment and let find out how truly media savvy you are, and where you may have a few gaps to be filled.
P.P. S. Let me know how you do!