Pitching to Producers: Tips to Get Your Story on Air
by Jess da Cunha
Landing a story is one thing, but landing a broadcast segment is a whole new playing field. Many brands dream of being seen on TV, and as publicists, it’s our job to make that dream come true. But how do you get there? The key is understanding how to craft your pitch specifically for the producer.
Below are a few helpful tips on what you need to know when pitching TV producers.
What Are Producers Looking For?
Top topics that are currently grabbing their attention include:
- Health and wellness
- Technology (especially AI)
- Parenting and family
- Travel and personal safety
- Local impact and human-interest stories
Stories that feature strong visuals, live demos, or authentic “real people” make your pitch stand out.
Picking the Right Spokesperson
Most producers prefer in-house speakers because it’s clearer who they represent. If available, including real-world voices, like local farmers or community members, can add warmth and authenticity to human-interest stories.
Crafting a Pitch That Gets Noticed
Here’s how to make your pitch stand out:
- Focus on news viewers can use: Include practical & actionable information
- Make it local and relevant: Tailor your pitch for the specific market if applicable
- Highlight visual opportunities like locations or B-roll
- Write a subject line that feels like a station tease, not clickbait
- Be upfront about your offer: Is it an interview, a story idea, or something else?
- Avoid sounding too commercial: Focus on helpful tips or insights
- Pitch during less busy times (weekends or holidays) to increase your chances
Remember, producers get flooded with pitches, so clear, relevant, and timely outreach matters.
Timing Is Key: Work With the News Cycle
Avoid pitching during major news events or election coverage when competition is fierce.
Instead, tie your story to relevant seasons or events. Also, consider less crowded slots like weekends or early morning newscasts.
AI Is on the Rise, Make Sure You Pitch It Right
Artificial Intelligence stories are popular, but pitches must show relevance and what’s truly new or different about the story. Focus on how AI impacts viewers’ lives or moves the conversation forward.
The Bottom Line: Be Real, Be Relevant
TV producers want stories that connect with their communities. When pitching, keep in mind:
- Who your story impacts
- How it will look on screen
- The real people behind your message
The media landscape is competitive, but with the right approach, your story can rise above the noise. Invest time in understanding what producers need and tailor your pitch accordingly. When you focus on authenticity, relevance, and clear value, you don’t just get airtime, but you build lasting relationships with producers that can open doors for future stories!