9 ways to get out of a pitching rut
Virtually every PR pro has been there: Lots of lines in the water, and nothing’s biting. Despair not. There are simple steps you can take to get back on track.
You have a fantastic and unique story idea, you have done your homework, and you have a select few reporters who write about the very topic you are pitching.
Yet they are not biting.
Before you end up doubting yourself, feeling downright rejected, and letting your client down, what are some ways to get out of your rut?
1. Take a hard and close look: Can you shorten it and add a visual asset? Can you lead with a trend instead of the product news? Is there a higher-level message that comes in at the third sentence instead of the first?
2. Turn to a friend: Talking to a colleague (present or former) when we are in the deepest of pitching ruts helps immensely. Fresh eyes can detect red flags or suggest tweaks.
3. Talk to the client: Often we are too proud or worried to admit we are not getting anywhere with a pitch, but sometimes coming clean and suggesting some ideas that you and the client can collaborate on can work magic. Make sure you have a few possible solutions before talking to the client.
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