Insights from a Reporter

Laura Sessions Stepp, Journalist and AuthorSeptember 25, 2015

National Coalition for Sexual Health

•On any given day, what you report or write depends on what other activities you’re involved in.

•And, whether you’re a freelancer or a journalist on staff.•As a full-time writer in a newsroom, you have an editor keeping you on

track. •As a freelancer, you are the writer and the enforcer.▫I have to set up a schedule and stick to it.▫Coffee, coffee, coffee!

•Deadlines are definitely helpful for me.

Typical Day in the Life

•Spend as much time as you can with your subjects.•Often need to negotiate for time, especially with sexual health topics.•Push past the softball questions. ▫Remember: There is no such thing as embarrassing questions, only

embarrassing answers. •Get out and hang out with the people you’re writing about. You need time

to observe your subjects. ▫Being able to describe a scene is much more compelling than simply stating

the obvious. ▫Offer to take the reporter to people.

Key Elements of an In-Depth, Long Lead Story

•Do some early reporting before you call or email. ▫Prepare your pitch with 2 or 3 facts and a summary of what is most

surprising. (30 – 45 seconds). ▫The “Bacon Stopper.”

• If you already know a reporter or editor, approach him or her first. • Look through newspapers and news sites for people who write in a field

related to what you are pitching. •Be polite and persistent.

Do’s and Don’ts for Approaching a Reporter

•Don't talk to the reporter in jargon. •Don't be put off by a reporter who seems rushed. ▫If it seems like the reporter is in a hurry, ask how much time she/he has

and adjust what you're going to say. •ALWAYS give the the reporter your phone number and email address.

Do’s and Don’ts for Approaching a Reporter (Cont.)