You might not get a story in print or on the 5 o’clock news the first time you pitch a reporter. It takes time to develop relationships with the media. Put in the time and effort to get to know the reporters who cover your beat before you pitch them, if possible. Compliment them on their previous work. You can say something like “I saw your story on (insert topic), and thought you might also be interested in this similar story about my business.” It always helps as a business owner to have a long term relationship with someone in the media.