What’s your position title? Reporter for the Gold Coast Bulletin.
Do you read all media releases that come your way? No.
How many media releases do you receive in an average week? Roughly, what % are useful to you?
I receive approximately 50 a week, and less than 10 per cent are useful.
What other methods do you use to generate/find stories? Calling contacts, the internet, reports.
Do you have a weekly quota of stories? No.
What is your preferred method of contact?/What is the best way to pitch a story to you? Email or phone. The best way to pitch a story is to present the idea to me first over the phone and make me aware that an email will arrive shortly with the details. There needs to be a clear news angle in the release. Journalists don’t respond well to blatant attempts to ‘get a plug’. It also helps if there is a photo opportunity. Flexibility in timing as well as ideas is also favourable.
What stories/topics do you focus on/are you interested in? Film and television, Police, court stories, human interest, stories particularly for women, gossip, relationships.
What are the best days to pitch to you? Any day - but it is best to send a release at least a few days before the event or interview/photo opportunity.
What’s your definition of news?/What’s news to you? News is anything in the public interest.
What is the most annoying thing that PR agents or other individuals do when trying to get publicity with you? Ring to see if I received a press release after it has been sent. It’s best to ring before to tell me to expect it— and then if I don’t receive it and I’m interested, I will call you.
To learn more about this author, visit Sarah O'Brien's Website.
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Sarah O'Brien
(Visit Sarah's Website)
Sarah O'Brien is an ex-journalist and
Senior Partner at Square One PR &
Communications.
Square One PR provides communication
solutions to businesses that want to stand
out in their industry.
Communication is an important part of
every business. When it's managed in a
strategic, proactive, and result-focused
manner the effect on the image, growth and
success of a business is astounding.
Square One also focuses on helping small
businesses and entrepreneurs make the most
of their PR on a tight budget, and has
recently launched Australia's first DIY
PR Pack, which includes a consult with a
Senior PR Account Manager.
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