Writing the perfect pitch for a PR professional is a dream come true. Pitches are often the bridge linking you to the needed new relationships, and they can only yield desired results when written with integrity, honesty and respect. Before drafting that pitch, you must research the company or person you are pitching to. Research whoever you are pitching to.
Knowing what the person or company does, who they are, and all they are about will guide you into how best to write your pitch. Your research equips you with knowledge with which you can address the person properly, establish a relationship with them, and find mutual ground in their interests, goals and passions.
Attributes of a perfect pitch
The following are the necessary attributes of a perfect pitch:
Professionalism: Your pitches should be drafted with all professionalism. Your tone should be business-like.
Subject Line: This first essential step to gaining your recipient’s attention should be brief and a maximum of 8-10 words. The subject line should be enough to arouse the recipient’s curiosity.
Concise, Respectful, and Succinct: Your tone should be respectful; avoid gloating as much as you can. Your pitch should be brief and straight to the point. You don’t want the reason for your pitch to be lost amidst the lengthy pitch. You want to pitch a story, not an idea. A 3-5 paragraph pitch is perfect.
Pitch structure: Structure your pitch in a way that works best for you.
Introduction: Ensure that you introduce yourself in the pitch. Provide details about yourself, such as your passions, interests, career, and achievements, to prove your credibility. It is essential to exude a sense of value to the recipient. The best way to do this is to drop some recognized names you have partnered with. Your introduction should be engaging and compelling enough.
State your attraction to them: Be precise by identifying that unique point that attracted you to them. Be honest and avoid saying something to impress the recipient. You can commend their past activities and then link them to your pitch.
Address them by their name: Ensure to research the recipient and address them by their name.
Focus on how the person would benefit from you: State the benefits they get to enjoy. These benefits are the unique points that distinguish you from several others. Exploit this well enough to make them see reasons to accept your pitch. Sometimes, it is difficult to state the benefits; it does not have to be numerous. One or two benefits are enough.
Mutually beneficial: See it as a mutually beneficial transaction and the recipient of your pitch an equal, although they may have more experience, expertise, or achievements. Remember that you are worthy of respect. Don’t lose your self-worth by grovelling.
A Call-to-Action: A perfect pitch should have a definite action point you would like the recipient to take. Ensure to put the next step of action at the end of your pitch.
You may include photographs or illustrations that make your pitch more interesting. You may not get the desired results, don’t be deterred. Your chances of winning are dependent on the number of pitches sent. Being polite, respecting yourself and the recipient of the pitch, and considering the benefits the recipients would enjoy are the necessary ingredients for a perfect pitch.
