How to follow up with a reporter to make them want to do a story about you.

You sent out your press release in the hopes of getting some free publicity. Now what?bigstockphoto_laptop_megaphone_small

Should you call and ask if the journalist got it? Should you send the media professional a reminder email? Should you leave it to the news release gods?

According to the more than 800 reporters I surveyed, the answer to ALL of these questions is a big NO! More than 79% of media professionals felt a call or email to check if they got the press release is not only inappropriate, but annoying.

A majority (nearly 86%) complained that many people call, and leave terrible messages about their releases on voicemail.

So what ARE you supposed to do?

First, be patient. Wait a few days before making your call. Then when you are ready, follow these guidelines for great phone follow up.

  • The amount of time you wait after sending the release depends on the publication’s schedule and how time sensitive your release is.
  • Use common sense when deciding the best time to follow up.
  • Once you have the editor or reporter on the phone, get to the point without being rude. First, always check if he or she has time to talk to you. If not, ask when is a good time to call back.
  • If your journalist has a few minutes (which in the news business means please keep it brief), introduce yourself.
  • Summarize the news hook. (If it’s longer than a sentence, your summary is too long.)
  • Ask if he or she thinks it sounds like something of interest.
  • If you get a positive response, say that you sent a press release a couple of days before, but you’d be happy to resend it.
  • If you get a negative response, and you sense that the journalist has a few more moments, ask either how this could be a story he or she would be more interested in or what kind of stories would he or she like to see from you in the future.


Shannon Cherry, APR, MA, is the Power Publicist. She helps entrepreneurs, coaches, consultants and other professionals attract more clients and customers by harnessing the power of public relations and marketing. Get your FREE publicity power pack by visiting http://www.beheardsolutions.com.

© 2009, Shannon Cherry, APR, MA & Cherry Communications Corp.

Written by Teresa Berger - Visit Website
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April 14, 2009 | Filed Under InnoVAtions, Professional Virtual Assistant, Public Relations 

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