Broadcast Media 101: Start By Knowing Why The Viewer Should Care

Aug 05, 2021 Smitha Rao

Broadcast media has a special place in our world when it comes to reaching audiences and shaping narratives. And people rely on it to provide lots of facts

Like digital and print media, it’s constantly changing. Here are a few current trends:  

#1: The pace of the news cycle is increasing tenfold while newsrooms are shrinking. Breaking news always takes precedence and there are fewer reporters to cover it. 


#2: The format of news segments has evolved. Many TV and radio networks are still producing their shows semi-remotely with guests streaming interviews from their homes. 


#3: There is a focus on inclusion. Major networks are (finally) making necessary changes to talent and guests when it comes to race and gender identity. They need to represent the communities they are reporting news to. 

All of these factors influence the mindsets of reporters and producers. If you’re looking for earned broadcast media opportunities, here’s what you should consider: 

☑️ Put the viewer (or listener) first. Why should their audience care about your story? This makes or breaks your broadcast pitch. Before you reach out to the TODAY Show or GMA, ask yourself: Would this information appeal to a mother of young children or an empty-nester in Iowa? Alternatively, if you’re pitching CNBC TechCheck or Cheddar, what is the bigger picture for a business owner or investor? Similarly, radio shows on NPR and Bloomberg focus on breaking news, major business trends across the country and the economy.

☑️ Time it right. Broadcast reporters and producers are covering stories that matter now. Does your story tie into a larger trend? TV follows the major headlines of the day. Pro tip: Don’t call when the show is on air—reach out before or after. 

☑️ Find a local or national angle. National broadcast outlets care about issues impacting everyone in the country; local broadcast outlets care about local news. Don’t discount the value of a local TV placement—there’s a chance it will be picked up by national affiliates if it bubbles up to a larger trend. 

☑️ Make it visual. B-roll still rules. If you have it, call it out in the pitch subject line. If you don’t have it, tell the producer. 

☑️ Offer a real expert or person impacted. Provide experienced (and trained) spokespeople. They should be able to think on their feet and have a compelling, not self-serving POV. Also, do you have access to a person impacted such as a customer or patient? Broadcast journalists love to balance their stories with both perspectives. Pro tip: Make sure the spokesperson’s LinkedIn is updated—bookers and producers typically check online profiles to make sure their position and expertise is legit. 

☑️ Be accessible. Is the spokesperson available on short notice? This is key. Producers often reach out to multiple sources for one interview. If you can be the first to respond, it improves your chances of being on air. 

☑️ Navigate the newsroom. The reporter might like your story but the executive producer or news director might not. Remember, there are lots of cooks in the kitchen—your story needs to be pitched to multiple producers before it gets air time. And obstacles like scheduling and breaking news can get in the way. Find out when the daily planning sessions are scheduled (typically morning or early afternoon, depending on the show time) and give them ample time to review your pitch. 

☑️ Offer an exclusive. If your story is the perfect fit, consider offering an exclusive as it will sweeten the deal and help lock it in.

For more information about Inkhouse’s approach to media relations, subscribe to our newsletter or email our team at workwithus@inkhouse.com

Topics: Media Relations, media trends, journalists, broadcast media, media interviews
Smitha Rao

Smitha has over 16 years of media, PR, and broadcast experience. She has been involved with countless live events, media tours, and news shows. She has worked for five television newsrooms, and all of the major broadcast affiliates, including NBC, CBS, and FOX.

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