Submitted by Sabina Hitchen on | 0 Comments
Today while rushing out my door I ran smack into two women who were ringing the doorbell to disccuss the topic of "Technology: Blessing or Curse?". Ironically I was juggling my iPod, Blackberry, carrying a laptop, and staring at an iTouch when this collision occurred.
Needless to say I was in a hurry, mildly frazzled and in no mood to talk to strangers about something that I had no interest in at the moment (though I'll admit it was a great topic for a coffee break, just not for the first few minutes of my morning). Just as I was opening my mouth to tell them how late I was and that I was not interested in whatever they were selling, the lead woman did the following:
Smiled calmly and looked into my eyes
Handed me the flier
Said "I know you weren't expecting us and we don't want to take any of your time, just wanted to share this information about (insert info on their mission here) and leave you with this follow up information" in a kind and clear manner.
Introduced herself and asked what my name was (I automtaically answered)
Said thanks and have a nice day
Was on her way
Before I knew it I had stopped disliking them, I had grabbed the pamphlet and stuck it in my bag, I had given her my name and smiled back at her, and I had listened to her entire "pitch" which took about 30 seconds max.
This is a perfect example of pitching come to life and we can all take valuable reminders from it:
Don't tell them your whole life story and purpose just give 'em the points that matter
Introduce yourself and smile (even smile on the phone, it changes the pitch I swear)
Ask for their name - make that personal connection
Keep it short and sweet, speak clearly and calmly, and then acknowledge you appreciate and respect their time
Leave them something (whether a follow-up email, a media kit, a press release, a link to your site)
Be gracious and move on
These are techniques that apply whether you're pitching via email, the phone, in person or clearly door-to-door. If someone can pitch me when I'm rushing off to catch a morning train, they can surely work on editor or producers!
Happy pitching!
