You're facing a skeptical journalist. How do you convince them of your story pitch's credibility?

It's always helpful to build trust with new contacts by working through contacts you already have. My nonprofit organization was working to get the word out about a new partnership with a coffee roaster, so I started by reaching out to any contacts I already had, then asked them for the contact to get us on the air. We ended up landing multiple spots (1 broadcast, 2 print) by leveraging those contacts. They've also had the additional benefit of putting my name in the organizational rolodex to then be called for other stories when there is interest in the community we serve.

Building trust with skeptical journalists is essential for effective communication. By demonstrating transparency & openness, you can foster a relationship that encourages dialogue and understanding. Utilizing data-driven insights can enhance your credibility. For instance, sharing case studies or statistics related to wastewater technology can illustrate your points & resonate with journalists. Tailoring your pitch to align with the journalist's interests is crucial. Highlighting the relevance of your story to current industry trends can make your message more compelling. In conclusion, nurturing trust and providing valuable content will not only convince journalists but also strengthen your brand's reputation in the wastewater sector.

When you’re trying to convince a journalist about your story, I found that being yourself really helps. Make sure you know all the facts about your story so you can answer any questions they have with confidence. But also, let your authentic self shine through too. Be honest about what you know, and don’t shy away from acknowledging areas where you’re still seeking more information. If you’re clear and genuine about what you know—and even what you’re still learning—they’re more likely to trust your story. Just be confident in the facts and show them that you're not just pitching a story but standing behind it with integrity.

If you can, you want to spend more time listening to a reporter than speaking at them, and then use the information you learn to address their concerns and tailor the pitch to what they want to see. A good investment is spending time with reporters (either in person, or virtually) developing relationships outside of simply pitching them.

Focus on the facts, provide verifiable data, and be transparent about your sources. Address their concerns directly and be ready with evidence. "Truth builds trust; trust builds stories."