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So you think you are ready. You are using public relations to gain consumer attention for your message. Congratulations! You have made a successful first step!

You should now be fully prepared with what your exact topic and message is. The next step in this process is the one that many dread and some even hate: pitching your message to the media. Friedman , Managing Director of EMSI , a national public relations firm, has been doing this successfully for over 20 years and knows exactly how to gain and hold the attention of various mediums . Here Marsha shares with us methods of pitching to the media 1. Be careful not to pitch yourself. When you are pitching to the media pitch your message not yourself. Marsha says, "Focus your pitches on THE ISSUE that you are an expert on. For example, if you are a mortgage broker pitch a show idea or story about the best way to finance a home in today's market. " By pitching the issue you get the producer or journalist interested in your story first. Make sure to deliver what they want: a hot story tied to the news.

2. Never pitch your product. If you are a product manufacturer it is very important that when you are pitching to the media that you do not keep the focus of your pitch on your product Marsha says, "Focus on the problem or issue that your product can fix. Don't keep harping on about your product on its own. You will lose their interest. If you produce a line of gourmet cookies pitch a show or story about the value of quality family time and offer tips on how moms and dads can share baking time with their children." Producers don't react very well to sales pitches, so really try to stay away from them altogether.

3. Don't rely on the media's research. Don't rely on the media to get perfect results on your topic through their research. Marsha says, "Supply them with your data in advance . This is especially important if your topic is controversial as you want them to have the data that supports your position." When you are pitching it is useful to have as many facts ready to use as possible. A busy producer may not be willing to take the time to hear your story if it is explained in a difficult to understand manner. The more explaining, the higher the chance you will be turned down. Make it concise and full of quality.

4. There is power in numbers. What we are talking about here is especially true if you are pitching a controversial topic. Marsha says, "If you're pitching a controversial topic to a radio or TV show, have a list of guests that are available to be on the show with you to support your side of the story With this group you will have a better handle on the segment and have people with you that will support your message. This helps you gain acceptance with the audience. " Without a list of suggested guests, you may be put on the spot or pushed into a corner when you appear on the show.

So now that you know, let's get out there and start pitching! If you would like to learn more about gaining media attention for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha is available to be of service . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without costly monthly retainers .