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So now you really feel like you are ready! You are using public relations to gain consumer attention for your message. First, let me congratulate you on this point! This is a big step in the right direction of growing your media exposure!

By now you have probably sat down and looked at your topic, have fully developed your message and are confident and ready to start getting yourself out there. Next up is to start pitching! Friedman , Chief Executive Officer of Event Management Services Incorporated , a national public relations firm, has been doing this successfully for over 20 years and knows exactly what grabs their attention and what turns them off. Here Friedman shares with us methods of pitching to the media 1. Never pitch yourself. When you get in contact with the media, don't pitch your company or YOUR qualifications. Friedman says, "Keep your focus on the issue. If you are a doctor specializing in natural health pitch a show idea or story about the 10 foods that will fight off illness during the flu season." 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 focus solely on the product you are trying to push Friedman 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. Give the media good, solid data. Don't rely on the media to get perfect results on your topic through their research. Friedman 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. If you have a tricky or detailed topic, present as much information as you can so that the busy, inundated producer or journalist can grasp your message quickly. 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. If you are topic is controversial then have some like minded friends or colleagues that can join you when you are a guest for backup. Friedman 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 This gives you more control of the segment and ensures your message will gain acceptance from the audience." If you do not have suggested guests to pitch to the producer, and they pick it up, you may just be setting yourself up for an on-air ambush, which if you are not prepared, can land you in deep water.

So now that you know, let's get out there and start pitching! If you would like to learn more about gaining national and local media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Friedman is here to help . 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 Marsha has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without budget busting monthly retainers.