6 lessons from journalists after a year of COVID-19

After nearly a year of pandemic-induced work from home, I grew concerned that I had lost touch with the colleagues with which I work the most: reporters.

So, I launched The Friday Reporter—a podcast where the public affairs professional (me) interviews members of the media.  With over 20 episodes recorded, there are a few facts I’ve uncovered that I thought might be useful to share.

Lisa Camooso Miller

When asked what pitches are the most successful, reporters said flacks who do their homework are preferred.  Spend a few minutes understanding the reporter’s specific beat.  Read some of the stories they’ve previously written.  Then find a way to make your pitch tailored more closely to what they cover.

The digital age has rendered the telephone obsolete in so many ways. While it might seem like a follow-up phone call would be useful, reporters find that calls that come in while they’re writing can be distracting, and could derail them from their thought process. So, though emails can go unanswered, they’re still the best means of connection for many of our media colleagues.

3. Reporters need permission to appear on a show.