How to annoy journalists

@andymturnerSix Sigma Public Relations

Be impenetrable

News release: ‘Market leading [usually unheard-of] Company X (Nasdaq: UComp X08) today proudly announces the beta release of its fault-tolerant 24×7 enterprise solution to optimize system integration…’

Be unaware

Of deadline times, editorial style, regular story themes, readership, image requirements, what’s been written recently, reporter contact preferences. The universal truth that no journalist welcomes calls that begin: “Did you receive our news release. You did? So will you be using it?”

Be over familiar

Chances are you’ve never met. So keep things business-like and get straight to the point. It’s probably best not to mention you have a common interest unless there’s a clear connection to your story pitch.

Be behind the news agenda

Pitching an idea connected to something that happened yesterday, unless it gives the reporter a significant new angle, will be unwelcome. Hard news aside, editors plan stories using event calendars relevant to readers. So find out what’s happening, and make a timely pitch.

Public or Media Relations

Whichever you are involved in, annoying people isn’t in the job description. What did I miss on this short list? Tweet your examples to @andymturner Let’s try and tidy up the mess of media relations