How to Pitch a Blogger

I know, we bloggers are supposed to hate the word 'pitch.' Pitch is the word PR-types use for flinging ideas at the Mainstream Media.

I get lots of clueless 'pitches' -- people contacting me wanting something. A book review (even a book on Earthworms once). Senseless press releases (feminine hygiene products --  serious!). You name it. I image A-list bloggers have it MUCH worse!

So, how to pitch me or other bloggers? Address us by name. Make it clear you've read our blog. Be ON friggin' target! (I don't write on weight loss!).

Here's a great one by Jim Ducharme, non-sleazy guy:

Hello Ted, (uses my name, not automated software spamming me)

“The Current Waves of the Information Revolution.”  Perhaps we should just call them “Tofflers?” (obviously has looked at my blog!)

I’m writing you to introduce you to the fastest growing social network for business on the web now: Salespider.com. I’m very excited about what we are doing here because I’ve always been passionate about online communities and social networking. It was one of my favourite subjects in my former position as editor of PC World Canada. I’ve included our press release below (press release OK, but NEVER send just a press release to a blogger!!) and I hope you will take a look at our site. I would also love to discuss with you the possibility of linking to your blog or even carrying your RSS in our soon to launch blogs section. (and even offers me something! A potential ethical bribe, ethical and appropriate since he's read my blog)

jd
Jim Ducharme
Senior Evangelist & Community Manager
Sales Spider - Social networking for business

Comments

[Jim D]

Hi Ted,

Thank you so much for the very kind words. You just made my day!

Regards,
jd

[Ted Demopoulos, Blogging for Business]

My pleasure JD!

[The Hairy Beast]

Sounds good, let's give it a try:

Greetings and felicitations, Ted

"How to pitch bloggers" eh? Intuition suggests bloggers are a desk-bound sendentary lot with all the springy mobility of a thick vein of prime Virginia coal. Before you could "pitch" one you would have to wrench him out of his burrow of discarded mars-bars wrappers, computer manuals, cigarette butts and moldy coffee cups. And then how would you get him airborne? A trebuchet?

Ha. Ha ha.

I am writing to direct your attention to what may well be the most exciting blog since "The What WOuld Happen If 'Nancy' Married Sluggo FanBlog!" debuted in 1998! It is called "The Hairy Beast" because of excessive cough syrup abuse at the time it was registered and also to preserve deniability once the Author makes the BIG TIME, which should be any moment now, let's check the email.

Ok not yet but there's an interesting business opportunity in Nairobi to look at.

Since my weblog is MUCH better than yours, you should link to me because then my readership will soar from it's present level which is roughly equvalent to the post-vampire population of "Salem's Lot" to something that may actually keep me in generic cigarettes and Mickey's Malt Liquor. Of course I will credit you fully once I am famous.

Think about it and get back to me.

THB

P.S. I just actually read your blog and now that I realize it's about business, perhaps you would be interested in an exciting opportunity that JUST came my way? It's in an african country, but I don't want to say more in case the bankers over there find out.

[Ted Demopoulos, Blogging for Business]

Ahhh Hairy One, you write wonderfully. I have learned much of writing and 'interesting business opportunities in Nairobi' for you. Perhaps you could get a job writing copy for budding Internet Entrepreneurs from Nigeria?

[The Hairy Beast]

Methinks the Nigerians don't need help making money on the web.

The only thing The Beast could suggest is that they add a "BeetleWeasel" to their posts. Since The Beast did this his hatemail volume has increased threefold!

Ah, progress!