So you want to be on TV?
Whether you want publicity for your brand, your business or yourself, TV is the ‘holy grail’ of PR.
We all dream of seeing our brand on TV, and even more so when it’s being featured within the show. In today’s world of multiple TV channels – digital, pay TV and free to air – it’s even harder to get the audience’s attention. However, if you’re in the program, you can’t be missed.
There are a few special things to remember when pitching to TV producers:
- Try to ring them first. TV producers react well when contacted with story ideas. If they are interested they will then ask you to send an email with the details.
- TV is a very visual medium so be sure to include your ideas for any images or footage that could be used to support your story. If you already have some TV quality footage be sure to mention that too.
- Try to put together a visual ‘package’ for the producer. Often they will want someone to verify your story so give them the names of people that can do that, or if you have a fashion range, make sure you can offer models to make it easy for them to run a mini ‘fashion parade’ on set.
- News programs on TV (and radio) have very short lead times so be prepared to act quickly. It is possible that they may ask you to appear on the show later that day (radio) or within a few days (TV and radio) so make sure you are fully prepared before you speak to anyone.
It is possible that you may be asked to appear on the show later that day or within a few days so make sure you are fully prepared before you speak to anyone.
We have some more tips for you that we will be covering in the next few weeks. Things like:
- How to pitch a story to a producer
- Getting your product on free-to-air TV
- How A Current Affair, Today Tonight and other current affairs shows work and what they are looking for in a pitch
- How to put together an attractive ‘package’ for a producer
Our TV producers list is now available on site. This list contains the producers from the three major national networks that are open to being approached with story ideas. We have focused on the morning shows and The Project as they are the most likely to be receptive. Take a look now!
Jules Brooke, Handle Your Own PR
