Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: ESG Communications • Thought Leadership • Brand Journalism

Media Pitch

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

A media pitch is a short, persuasive message that PR professionals send to journalists or media outlets to get them interested in covering a story. Think of it like a sales pitch, but instead of selling a product, you're selling a story idea. When someone mentions media pitch experience on their resume, they're saying they know how to craft compelling messages that grab journalists' attention and convince them to write about their client's news, events, or expertise. This is different from a press release, which is a formal announcement - a pitch is more like a customized conversation starter.

Examples in Resumes

Secured national media coverage through strategic Media Pitch campaigns resulting in 50+ placements

Developed targeted Media Pitches that led to coverage in top-tier publications

Created and distributed successful Media Pitch materials for product launches and company announcements

Achieved 80% success rate with Press Pitch outreach to industry journalists

Successfully landed client interviews through compelling Story Pitch strategies

Typical job title: "PR Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist PR Coordinator Media Relations Manager Communications Specialist PR Account Executive Public Relations Manager Media Relations Coordinator

Where to Find PR Professionals

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a media pitch campaign that failed and how you turned it around?

Expected Answer: Senior candidates should discuss their strategic thinking, ability to quickly adapt approaches, and provide specific examples of how they've overcome challenges in pitching. They should demonstrate leadership in adjusting team strategy and maintaining client relationships during difficult situations.

Q: How do you measure the success of your media pitching efforts?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show understanding of both quantitative metrics (placement numbers, reach, engagement) and qualitative measures (message accuracy, relationship building, brand positioning), plus experience with PR measurement tools and reporting to stakeholders.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for creating and personalizing media pitches?

Expected Answer: Candidate should explain how they research journalists, customize pitches, and demonstrate knowledge of different pitch formats (email, phone, social media). They should discuss timing, follow-up strategies, and building relationships with media contacts.

Q: How do you handle pitching different types of media outlets?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of how to adapt pitch style and content for different media types (newspapers, magazines, TV, digital media) and knowledge of what makes a story newsworthy for different audiences.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements of a successful media pitch?

Expected Answer: Should mention basics like clear subject lines, concise writing, newsworthy angles, and proper formatting. Should understand the importance of research and targeting the right journalists.

Q: How do you find the right media contacts for your pitches?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate familiarity with media databases, social media research, and reading target publications to understand beat reporters and relevant contacts.