Media pitch email

Use this for one reporter at a time, after the media list is agreed.

Why this reporter

Name the recent piece that makes the story a fit, with its date and link. If there is no clear link to their recent work, say so and suggest a better name from the list rather than forcing a pitch.

Write the pitch

Keep it under 150 words:

• a subject line that states the news plainly;
• one line tying the story to their recent work;
• the news and the one fact that proves it;
• embargo date, time, and time zone, if any;
• the ask: an interview, an early look, or data;
• who they would speak to, and how to reply.

Offer nothing in return for coverage. Mark every figure and quote with its approval state.

Follow-up rule

Draft at most one follow-up, sent no sooner than three working days later, adding something new such as data or an image. Stop if the reporter declines or asks not to be contacted.

Never claim other outlets are covering the story, invent interest, or offer payment, gifts, or favours. Do not send the pitch or the follow-up; the user approves and sends each one.