So, you've got a story and you think ABC News should hear about it? That's awesome! Getting your story noticed by a major news outlet can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to submit a story to ABC News, making sure your pitch is on point and stands out from the crowd. We'll cover everything from understanding what kind of stories ABC News typically looks for, to crafting a compelling pitch, and finally, how to actually submit your story. Let's dive in and get your story out there!

Understanding ABC News and Its Target Stories

Before you even think about submitting your story to ABC News, it's crucial to understand what kind of content they typically cover. ABC News is a major player in the news industry, known for its coverage of national and international news, investigative reports, human-interest stories, and breaking news. Spend some time watching ABC News programs, browsing their website, and following them on social media. This will give you a solid understanding of their editorial style, the types of stories they prioritize, and the audience they're trying to reach. Are they focusing on political analysis, in-depth investigations, or heartwarming community features? Knowing this will help you tailor your pitch to align with their current interests and increase the likelihood of your story being considered.

Consider recent events and ongoing trends. Is there a local angle to a national story? Can you provide a unique perspective on a topic already in the news? Think about how your story fits into the broader news landscape. ABC News, like any major news organization, is looking for stories that are timely, relevant, and impactful. They want content that will resonate with their audience, spark conversations, and make a difference. Also, pay attention to the format of their stories. Do they prefer short, punchy reports or longer, more in-depth features? Do they rely heavily on video and images? Understanding these stylistic preferences will help you present your story in a way that's more likely to catch their attention. Remember, the more you know about ABC News and its target stories, the better equipped you'll be to craft a compelling pitch that resonates with their editors and producers. It’s about doing your homework and showing them that you understand their needs and values.

Crafting a Compelling Pitch

Okay, you've done your research and you have a great story that fits ABC News’s profile. Now comes the crucial part: crafting a pitch that grabs their attention. A well-crafted pitch is your first and best opportunity to make a lasting impression. Think of it as a brief, persuasive summary of your story that highlights its key elements and why it matters. Start with a strong hook – a sentence or two that immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to learn more. This could be a surprising statistic, a compelling anecdote, or a thought-provoking question. Clearly state the who, what, where, when, and why of your story right up front. Don't bury the lede! Editors and producers are busy people, so they need to understand the essence of your story quickly.

Next, emphasize the newsworthiness of your story. Why is this story important and why should ABC News cover it? Is it a breaking news event, a significant trend, or a unique human-interest story? Highlight the impact your story could have on the audience and the community. Explain why your story is unique and different from other stories out there. What fresh perspective or angle are you bringing to the table? Do you have access to exclusive information or sources? Make sure to showcase what makes your story stand out. Keep your pitch concise and to the point. Aim for a length of no more than a few paragraphs. Use clear, simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms. Proofread your pitch carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. A polished and professional pitch demonstrates that you're serious about your story. Also, include relevant background information or supporting materials. This could include links to articles, videos, or social media posts. Provide contact information for yourself and any key sources. Make it easy for ABC News to follow up with you if they're interested. Remember, your pitch is your sales pitch. Make it compelling, concise, and professional to maximize your chances of getting your story noticed.

Finding the Right Contact at ABC News

Now that you have a killer pitch, you need to get it into the right hands. Finding the right contact at ABC News can significantly increase your chances of getting your story noticed. Start by doing some research on the ABC News website and social media channels. Look for specific reporters, editors, or producers who cover topics related to your story. Many journalists include their contact information on their Twitter profiles or personal websites. You can also try searching for ABC News staff directories online. LinkedIn can be a valuable resource for identifying potential contacts and learning more about their roles at ABC News.

Once you've identified a few potential contacts, take the time to learn more about their work. Read their articles, watch their segments, and get a sense of their interests and expertise. This will help you tailor your pitch to their specific areas of coverage. When reaching out to a contact, personalize your message. Don't send a generic email blast to multiple people. Instead, address the contact by name and explain why you're reaching out to them specifically. Reference their past work and explain how your story aligns with their interests. Be respectful of their time and keep your message concise and to the point. Introduce yourself briefly and explain your connection to the story. Clearly state the purpose of your email and what you're hoping to achieve. Proofread your email carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling. A professional and personalized email demonstrates that you've done your research and that you value their time. If you don't hear back from a contact after a week or two, it's okay to follow up politely. However, avoid being pushy or aggressive. Remember, journalists are busy people, so be patient and persistent. Building relationships with journalists can take time, but it can pay off in the long run. Networking is key. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with journalists on social media. By building relationships, you can increase your visibility and improve your chances of getting your story noticed.

Submitting Your Story: The Process

Alright, you've got your compelling pitch and the right contact in mind. Now, let's talk about the actual process of submitting your story to ABC News. While there isn't a single, universally advertised "submit" button, there are several avenues you can explore. Direct email is often the most effective method, especially if you've identified a specific journalist or producer who covers your topic. Craft a personalized email with your pitch, making sure it's concise and attention-grabbing.

If you don't have a specific contact, you can try reaching out to ABC News through their general contact channels. Visit the ABC News website and look for contact information for their news desk or assignment editors. Be aware that these general channels often receive a high volume of submissions, so your pitch may need to be particularly compelling to stand out. Some news organizations have online forms or portals for submitting tips or story ideas. Check the ABC News website to see if they offer this option. If they do, follow the instructions carefully and provide all the requested information. When submitting your story, make sure to include all relevant information and supporting materials. This could include background information, photos, videos, and contact information for sources. The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for ABC News to assess your story. Be persistent but polite. Journalists and producers are busy people, so it may take time for them to respond to your pitch. If you don't hear back after a week or two, you can follow up with a brief email. However, avoid being pushy or demanding. Understand that not every story will be accepted. The news industry is highly competitive, and ABC News receives countless pitches every day. Don't be discouraged if your story is not selected. Use it as a learning experience and continue to refine your pitching skills. Remember, getting your story noticed by a major news outlet like ABC News takes time, effort, and persistence. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success and get your story out there for the world to see.

Following Up and What to Expect

So, you've submitted your story, now what? The waiting game begins! Following up is a crucial step, but it's a delicate balance. You want to stay on their radar without becoming a nuisance. Generally, wait about a week to ten days after your initial submission before sending a follow-up email. Keep it brief and polite, simply reiterating your story's key points and expressing your continued interest. Avoid bombarding them with multiple emails or calling repeatedly.

What should you expect during this process? Realistically, expect a lot of silence. Newsrooms are incredibly busy, and journalists receive countless pitches daily. It's possible you won't hear back at all, even if your story is a good fit. Don't take it personally. If you do receive a response, it could range from a simple "no thanks" to a request for more information or an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your story, provide additional details, and connect them with relevant sources. If ABC News expresses interest in your story, be responsive and cooperative. Provide them with whatever they need to move forward with the story. Be flexible and willing to work with them to shape the story to fit their needs. Understand that ABC News may not be able to guarantee when or if your story will be published or broadcast. News cycles are constantly changing, and priorities can shift quickly. Be patient and understanding, and don't be afraid to ask for updates. Remember, getting your story covered by ABC News is a significant achievement. Be proud of your efforts, and use the experience to refine your pitching skills for future opportunities. Whether your story is accepted or not, the process of submitting it to ABC News can be a valuable learning experience. It can help you improve your writing, pitching, and networking skills, which can benefit you in all aspects of your career.

By following these steps and maintaining a professional and persistent attitude, you'll significantly increase your chances of getting your story the attention it deserves. Good luck, and happy pitching!