Tips For Getting Local Media Coverage

The media always want a good local story, or a local angle on a national story. The involvement of faith groups in environmental issues and the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast both have a significant amount of interest right now for media outlets, so consider pitching the story to your local media. This not only brings new attention to the injustices on the Gulf Coast, but it raises the profile of your congregation in your community, and lets your community know that people of faith have something to say about environmental justice issues.

1. Identify Local Media Outlets and Contacts

Newspapers - depending on the size of your newspaper, they may have reporters that cover religious or environmental stories (probably not the same person). A staff person dedicated to either of these two areas would be a great place to start.
Radio
Television

2. "Pitch" Your Story

Best time to call is early in the day
Respect the journalists' time crunch and pitch your story as succinctly as possible
Practice your pitch before picking up the phone. Click here to see an example of a news pitch
Consider writing a news release so that you have some written information to send a reporter that is interested in your story
Follow up with anyone who shows interest in your story. Oftentimes you will have to repeat information or send your news release a second time - if this is the case call again immediately to confirm that it was received.
Don't get discouraged by rejection! Just keep trying!

3. Be Prepared to Give an Interview

Practice answering questions in advance
Keep it simple and interesting
Stick to one or two central points
Speak slowly and give brief answers
Refer to concrete examples, personal experience, and clear images
Realize that it's OK to be nervous
If you don't have an answer for a question, just say so and try to track one down later

4. Maintain a Relationship with the Reporter

Thank her for covering your event
Let her know the next time your congregation is doing something newsworthy
Encourage members of your congregation to write Letters to the Editor about your Earth Day theme in response to the story