The holidays are upon us and while many are taking time off, the press does not. Digital media outlets need to fill their sites with stories and television stations will be, as they call it, “light” for stories.  

Reporters and editors are not getting inundated with press pitches as many are on vacation, so your pitch has a chance of getting read and potentially picked up. 

As hard news slows down, reporters need story ideas. And this is where you come in! Here’s what journalists are looking for. 

Secret #1: Feel Good Stories

I think most of us agree that after this year, we all need a feel-good story. Reporters are looking to share a special story that warms the hearts of their viewers or readers. This works great with your local media. If you have a special story that will resonate with your audience pitch away. 

Secret #2: Food. Food. Food.

Food is a big part of the season and prior to COVID television stations would have in-studio cooking segments. But that doesn’t mean that they are not looking for this type of content. Pitch a unique cooking/entertainment segment that you can do remotely. Think about what people will be doing this holiday season as it is a bit different and create a pitch from there. For example, maybe folks aren’t doing the traditional holiday dinner, so give them ideas to create fun and less stressful meals or snacks. Remember, think outside the box and what is important to the audience. 

Secret #3: Be Topical

Pitching topical newsworthy stories is always the best way to reach the media, even during the holidays. Pitch a story that connects your organization to a news topic or current trends, such as the economy, COVID, health, or other trends.

Secret #4: How To’s

The media loves to interview experts about tips. From how to stay healthy during the holidays with COVID to how to avoid gaining weight from all the amazing food and cookies...these are great ways to reach the media.
  

Secret #5: Gifts Ideas

We all struggle with coming up with unique gifts and the media loves to provide unique ideas to their readers and viewers. If you have a specific product that would make a good gift before you pitch the idea think about what sets your brand apart and why it would make a good story. It is American made, inexpensive, easy to get last minute, great for moms, dads, kids, co-workers..whats the hook?

Secret #6: Trends 

This is the time that journalists are working on 2021 predictions. The media is looking for experts in their industry to talk about what we can expect over the next year in that field. This is the case in multiple areas. From health and wellness to finance and style. The key here is to pitch this ASAP. 

A great place to see opportunities regarding these stories is HARO (Help a Reporter Out) I talk all about this and how to use it in my online course Land Your Own Media Coverage and Increase Your Brand. 

While national media exposure is the goal for many, I highly encourage you to start on the local level, especially with these holiday stories. And once they interview you, your chance to do more interviews will increase significantly. 

I’m excited to hear about your success.

Have a wonderful holiday season!!

HAMPTON ROADS, Va - A former journalist and media relations expert, Alison Maloni offers insights on how to manage your reputation on social media and in the news.

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