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Getting your issue on national TV can be a huge win for your campaign and can spark a conversation that leads to real change. How can you get in the spotlight? Here are our top three tips for breaking through the clutter, grabbing attention for your issue and keeping producers interested.
Craft a pitch that gets read, not trashed. Know the shows and know your targets - which shows would work best for your message? Also think about the audience - is your story better for AM consumer news or PM hard news? (The best way to find this out is to watchthe show!) Producers can often tell if you are sending a general pitch, so the more you can tailor it to their show, the more likely your success.
Get specific. The last thing a producer wants to read is a broad pitch about [insert the issue you eat, sleep, breathe]. YOU know why it's important, but the producer doesn't necessarily see it the same way. Can you tie your pitch to a recent news-moment that the show recently covered? Can you provide specific data on a state or region related to a legislator opposing your issue? Do you have an upcoming report release you can tease in advance or offer on exclusive?
Do something eye-catching. Include a photo, an infographic, or repackage data that will jump off the screen and get a producer's attention. While it doesn't hurt if it's visually stunning, a graphic in your pitch doesn't always have to be high-dollar design, sometimes a simple pie chart or Google map can be all it takes. Make sure that if you're pitching a visual story that you actually HAVE visuals.
What are your ideas for getting your organization's issues in the national spotlight? Share in the comments on our blog!
Cosa Bullock is a Senior Strategist at M+R Strategic Services, and an NOI community member.
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