How to Pitch a StoryEver wonder why we refer to convincing an editor a story is worthy by “pitching a story?” I have. I’m a baseball enthusiast, and it makes a lot of sense to me. When
editor is at bat with you, he or she has a few swings to make before making a connection – through story idea (ball) that could end up being a base hit or a home run. Naturally, everyone wants to hit a home run when they go to bat with an editor. Sometimes publicists and writers do have to walk to first base for story assignment. Here are some helpful tips on how to pitch a story to an editor – and how to at least hit a single, double, or triple – if not a home run on occasion.
Use an Editor’s Time Productively Time spent on telephone with an editor is more like a gift from God. If you want to be successful at purveying a story idea, it’s best to have information you want to convey rehearsed, or in note written form prior to your call. Try not to spend more than 10 or 15 minutes speaking about your story idea. Always ask editor, “Is this a good time for you?” before beginning your pitch. Another great way to reach an editor is by a well-written e-mail pitch. In either case focus presentation or conversation on your story idea(s). If editor is interested, he or she may ask more questions. If not, editor should tell you.
Facts, Sources, Images The editor needs to be interested in theme of your story. A quick 2-3 sentence synopsis should offer an original focus or angle on a topic related to publication. For example, if I wanted to pitch to Ms. magazine, I’d want to have a feminist event, profile, or feature idea that would be appropriate. Identify potential research sources for your story, or elaborate upon contacts with experts in area, to let editor know you are capable of tackling subject. This expansion on your topic is key to keeping editor’s interest. Many magazine and newspaper editors will also ask you up front about availability of photographs to go with story. Be prepared answer this question with some viable suggestions for photos and a creative approach. By now you’ve sold story idea. So, don’t forget to ask about availability of a staff photographer from publication to assist with photos.
Where do I Find Stories to Pitch? Whether you are working for yourself or an organization or company, you have your comfort zones. These are vendors you are doing business with, your immediate environment, and social functions that seem aligned with your work. Go outside of your usual boundaries, experiment in other social venues, and talk to people as often as possible. I look for story ideas when I’m on assignment with a story. Because I write daily, I know that one story will inevitably lead to another. I also pick up story ideas in bar, at university where I work as a teacher, from other clients, from students, local activists, or during outdoor group activities such as hiking and camping. I listen closely to what people say, and I carry around my favorite pocketbook sized bungee notebook to record my thoughts and story ideas. When I have an editor on telephone, or am lucky enough to meet one in person, I act like I did when I played ball: I just start pitching.
