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Entrepreneurs, boot-strappers by nature, have no advertising budget. Pitching a product to the press, therefore, is one attractive idea. Think: “Oprah’s Favorite Things.”

Magazines, newspapers, blogs, they’re all worth contacting. But pitching ain’t easy. Katy Saeger, Managing Partner, Saeger Media Group, outlined the do’s and don’ts at the LOHAS Forum 2011.

So You Think You Can Pitch? Follow these Tips!

1) Know who you really are. Your authentic self is doing interesting things, share them.
2) What time is it? Breaking News best for blogs and newspapers. In June/July, pitch glossy magazines for December.
3) Should you use Facebook or Twitter to contact reporters? Twitter is better for direct contact; Facebook, getting your message out there.
4) While you pitch: Be a human. Get to point. Keep it brief. Open the door for conversation. Have a few angles ready. Don’t be TOO creative, though. You’re not Maya Angelou.
5) Wait a few days to follow up by email. Be CAREFUL with phone calls.

P.S. Never Use These Terrible Phrases

1) “You should write about me…”
2) “Have I got a story for you…”
3) “Did you get my email?”

In short, pay attention to the publication’s audience. Tailor your talk to their readers.

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Creator of Namaspray® Yoga Mat Cleaner

Heather Munro Marshall is a freelance writer, yoga teacher and creator of Namaspray® yoga mat cleaner She did NOT make the finals at the Naturally Boulder pitch slam last year.