When Journalists Snub You

You pitch a story to a top-tier newspaper.

The reporter calls you. You bend over backwards to help with the story. And when it’s finally printed, you’re crestfallen to learn that the reporter never even mentioned your name.

The first time it happened to me, I wanted to call the reporter’s boss and complain. And then I wanted to pound nails into the tires of the reporter’s car. I would never do that, of course. But at the time, I was tempted.

A graduate of The Publicity Hound Mentor Program reminded me of this recently when she asked what to do about a similar problem. She pitched a real estate story to a reporter at The New York Times as well as to a section editor.

But she was left out of the story completely.

“Is there anything a PR person can do? I’m not looking to get even,” she wrote. “I just want to be considered for another story.”

Here’s what I told her:

–Never voice displeasure to the reporter, or go over his head and speak with an editor.

–Rather, send the reporter a handwritten thank-you note explaining that you saw the story. Thank him for using you as a source. Remind him that you’re an expert in the areas of A, B and C, and tell him he should call on you again for background, commentary and story ideas.

–Call the reporter in a few months and pitch another story.

–Whether or not he likes your idea, ask “How else can I help you?” (Even if this kills you, ask.)

Whining, tattling to his boss, and pounding nails into his tires gets you nowhere. Do that, and you’ve forever ruined your chances of establishing a relationship.

By the way, reporters don’t view this as “snubbing.” The way they see it, they’re just doing their jobs.

If you want long-term access to me to help you with problems like this one, brainstorm story ideas, craft enticing pitches, serve as your personal writing coach, and show you how to navigate the world of social networking, The Publicity Hound Mentor Program could be the perfect place for you.

Read about what it offers at https://www.publicityhound.com/mentoring and then let’s talk to see if we’re a good match.