Learn how to pitch freelance writers
April 8th, 2010
Here’s the first of a series where I tackle journalists on the street and make them tell me what they want. Want to know how to pitch a freelancer? Elizabeth Millard writes about business and technology for a range of publications. I stopped her on a busy street last week and amid planes, trains and automobiles (ok maybe not trains but it sounds like it) asked her some questions about how she likes to be pitched, what stories she likes and her BIGGEST pet peeves. Elizabeth is based in the Twin Cities, but her advice will hit home in any market, local or national. I encourage you to watch the video for all of Elizabeth’s tips - including the phrase that makes her delete your email from her address book forever.
But for those of you too busy to watch, here are the main highlights:
- A pitch gets her attention if the writing is really good in the pitch, even more so if it makes her laugh
- Don’t use marketing speak in your pitches ever
- If a freelancer tells you “no” don’t be relentless in trying to change his or her mind
- Only pitch product stories to writers who specifically write about product news
- Do favors for freelancers – help them find sources even if its not for one of your clients or for your business. They’ll pay you back in the long run!
