Another reason for offering your services is often the reporter you help will be the same one that writes a full coverage story on you. Help make reporters and producers jobs easier by volunteering as a source and they will repay you with feature stories and leads on other opportunities. 

Reporters consider themselves storytellers.

They look for the local angle. That is "why do people in this market care?" Make NO mistake about it - news is entertainment.  If you wish to see your story make the news you must inform reporters why the people in your city or state would benefit from hearing about you, your product, or service. In a previous article I told the story of a pool fence company. When this company needed some press the story idea we presented was not related to the product, in this case a mesh fence, but rather what the product did, keep children safe from drowning. Your idea must be informative, compelling, and yes entertaining. Before calling answer the question; "Why should anyone care"

It's okay to ask reporters their opinion of your story idea and ways you might tweak it to better comply with their needs. It is also okay to call and ask what types of stories they are looking for.  

Reporters work on deadlines.
When calling to make an introduction, call early in the morning, before 8am. (If you're calling an AM show producer call later in the day). Keep your introduction short. It's a good idea to rehearse it. Keep it under thirty seconds unless they invite you to stay on the phone longer. Another way to get in the door is by e-mail. E-mail has become the contact method of choice for many reporters, producers and on-air personalities. You may also send your press release by e-mail. A good time to contact on-air producers is immediately after the show has aired. When contacting a reporter by e-mail do not expect an immediate response. It may take days if not weeks for them to get back to you. Be Patient.

If you have a story that is time sensitive, consider inviting him/her to eat. Breakfast is usually preferable as lunch or dinner might interfere with a deadline. Be prepared to pay and bring a copy of your idea outline. Do not make the reporter take notes.