WHEN TO CALL THE NEWSROOM

What is the best time of the day to make a call to a newsroom?
(Adapted from a Blades Trozzolo Public Relations/mediamaven June 2003 e-mail)

If it's a breaking story, anytime of the day is when a reporter or editor wants to hear from you. There is no "best" time to call. If it's not breaking news, time your calls wisely. General rules of thumb on when not to call:

Newspapers: Avoid calling between 9 to 10 a.m., during morning department editorial meetings, and one-half hour before each edition is sent to print in the evening. Afternoon newspapers have a different run, but they are scarce.

Weekly Newspapers: Contact reporters during business hours, especially in the afternoon. The day after deadline is when you will find them most receptive. They will not be receptive on deadline day.

Television: Avoid calling after 3 p.m. through the 6 p.m. newscast. After the 10 p.m. newscast, reporters typically leave the studio. Call around 10 a.m., just after the morning story meeting ends. You may be able to reach a night reporter or assignment editor around 7 p.m.

Magazines: Deadlines vary according to frequency and lead time. Ask the media representative if he or she has a few moments to speak with you.

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