In response to a post I read!

Partha "Opinionated" Srinivasan has left a new comment on the post "How to approach a journalist":

What you have treaded on is dangerous territory!!

My thoughts on what you have posted may or may not be a figment of my imagination! I too have been on both sides, but thankfully was never hounded by PR people. I know I was also a hounder and so I had always maintained a particular etiquette in approaching journalists or writers!


1. I prefer to add you on gtalk first and then if I get to know you better, on FaceBook too. Will you take offence?

I have all my close media people on my personal email id and they respond well to that since they know me and I do not Bother them with information unless I need guidance or it is relevant to them. And I DO NOT SELL THEM SOMETHING THAT THEY HAVE ALREADY SAID "NOT POSSIBLE" TO!

2. Would you take offence if I called you out for lunch to know you better? If yes, what do you think is an alternative?

I think meeting more often socially is a good alternative but pick the people you go out with - not everyone appreciates it! Sure it is work first but a little friendship hurt no one!! If you have ONLY ulterior motives on your mind, then its a strict NO NO since a journalist never forgets! Be nice - they are humans too and have self esteem!

3. I have this really big announcement to tell you about and you are not willing to take my calls or reply to mails, is there any other way apart from pestering you by repeatedly calling and emailing?

If it is big enough - You will be called back - if it is urgent to get in touch - DO NOT REPEATEDLY CALL - SMS apologetically - then wait - call post 7 in the evening and understand their situation! This is one off only - not to be done regularly!

4. What is the best way to approach a writer? (a reply of more than 20 words would be most appreciated.)

Personally - If I know the writer well, then I would call - since I know that my call would be taken and I can have constructive conversation! Always ensure you know what you are talking about - most journos today can pick out the wheat from the chaff - be the wheat! They will appreciate you more - and not have any grudges talking to you, since their opinion is better valued! Understand their domain, talk to them - allow them to talk and understand, absorb and use for future reference. Put yourself in their shoes (you were there so it is easier!)

< /rant >

Posted via email from partha's posterous