Want to increase exposure for your business and think television is the way to go? Before you hit send on that email, be sure you know the dos and don’ts for pitching a television segment for your business. Read our favorite tips to help you secure a coveted spot on your town’s favorite show.
DON’T pitch the TV anchor.
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When pitching television, you’ll want to pitch the appropriate producer and not your favorite network’s anchor. The producers will be the ones booking and scheduling segments for anchor-hosted shows.
DO customize your pitch.
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Be sure to tailor your pitch to the specific network and show (morning, mid-day, evening, weekend). Including the name of the show and referencing the anchors or hosts of the show in your initial email will help you stand out and show that you’ve done your research..
DON’T assume producers will say yes.
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Television shows and the teams that make it all come together are busy! Typically, producers book about a month out, so be sure to time your pitch correctly. Following up 48 hours after your initial pitch will hopefully help secure that spot sooner.
DO fully describe your segment idea.
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When pitching for TV, paint a picture of what your segment would look like. For example, if your goal is to land a cooking segment, explain the dish that you would be cooking and any additional information that would be helpful to the viewers.
DO know what each show entails.
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Sticking with the cooking segment example, be sure what you’re pitching applies to the specific show. Don’t pitch a cooking segment for a show that doesn’t have a kitchen. Want to grill up burgers? Make sure the studio has an outdoor setup, including a grill.
DON’T forget to confirm space restrictions with producers.
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If you do land a segment, be sure to confirm with the producer how many people are allowed to be on air as well as behind-the-scenes. It’s important to bring as few people as possible! Also, be sure to bring any props, ingredients, etc. along, too and let the producer know of these ahead of time.
DO draft and send talking points.
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Several days before your segment, be sure to send the producer talking points (what to discuss during the segment), how to pronounce the guest’s name, and the names of the guests that will be attending. Additionally, make sure to send the talking points to your on-air guest for the segment as well in advance of the segment.
Not interested in pitching television segments on your own? Contact the Social Ape team to learn more about developing and executing a robust public relations strategy!
