How to Find the Right Journalist to Pitch Your Story

So you've got a great story to pitch, but who do you reach out to? There are a few key steps you can take to help make sure you're pitching your story to the right journalist.

First Things First: Do Some Research

The first step is to do some research. Google is your friend here. Search your subject and then click on "News" in the menu bar. Go through the list of most recent news articles focusing on your topic. Click on each article and find the name of the journalist. You can often find their contact information on the site, but if you can't, search them on Twitter or check to see if they have a personal blog site. Before you reach out, familiarize yourself with their past articles. This will help you get a sense of whether or not they would be interested in your story idea.

Make a List of Potential Leads

Once you've done your research, it's time to make a list of potential leads. This list should include the names of journalists who have written about topics similar to yours in the past. It's also a good idea to include a mix of local, national, and international media outlets on your list. The more places you pitch your story, the better chance you have of getting coverage.

Reach Out and Make Your Pitch

Now that you've got your list of potential targets, it's time to reach out and make your pitch. Start by sending a brief email introducing yourself and explaining why you think the journalist would be interested in your story. Then, attach a short press release or pitch letter outlining the details of your story. Be sure to include any relevant photos, videos, or other supporting materials that would make your story more appealing to the journalist. Once you've sent off your pitches, all that's left to do is wait for a response!

Remember, when it comes to finding the right journalist to pitch your story, research is key. Familiarize yourself with their past work so that you can be sure you're pitching them something that would be of interest. And don't forget to cast a wide net—the more places you pitch your story, the better chance you have of getting coverage!