Sandra Fernandez, Houston Public Library; Frida Villalobos, Houston Women's Center; Terri Ammerman, the Ammerman Experience -- talk media relations. How to pitch a story, get an interview, and what to do when you're caught off guard.

1. Media Relations:
Getting the Message Out
Sandra Fernandez
Houston Public Library
Frida Villalobos
Houston Area Women’s Center

2. Media List
Update It Personally
Just Ask
Who does that?
Ask For Editorial
Calendars
Ask For Advertising
Kits (Demographics)
Network
Pay Attention -- Bylines, News Stories

3. Prepare
Do Your Research
Create Backup
Materials
Use Multimedia
Create Sample Questions
And Answers
Choose The Right Spokesperson

4. Pitch It
Newsworthy;
Is It News?
Human Factor/Give
Your Story A Face
Personalize The Pitch
Be Specific
Short Message, Get To The Point

5. Social Media
Use social media
to connect
“Listen” to what
reporters are sharing
Interact with them,
build a relationship

6. Remember
Thank the reporter
for running your story
Be aware of their
deadlines
Learn AP Style

7. SUCCESS!
What it takes to communicate effectively
Control
Confidence
Credibility
Connection

8. Make Your Points!
Keys to successful message delivery
1. Key Message
Story
Example
Illustration
2. Key Message Anecdote
Analogy
Compelling Data
Memorable Line SOUND BITE
3. Key Message