Getting coverage in the media for your petition can greatly help in growing support and influencing decision makers. Here are the four steps to follow:

Step 1: Craft your press story:

• Link your story to current news, upcoming deadlines, decisions, or relevant calendar events.
• Highlight the importance of your petition right now, showcasing momentum and the number of signatures.
• Make the story location-specific to target local reporters.
• Explain why the story is important, emphasizing the number of people affected.

Step 2: Pitch reporters:

• Research reporters who cover your issue or are likely to be interested in your petition.
• Send a concise email introducing yourself and your petition, highlighting its relevance.
• Follow up if you don’t hear back, and be persistent in contacting multiple journalists.
• Monitor the media for any coverage and set up Google alerts.

Step 3: Ace the interview:

• Prepare three key points that convey your message consistently.
• Practice answering interview questions while bringing the conversation back to your points.
• Mention your petition and the number of signatures to add credibility and encourage support.

Step 4: Make the most of media:

• Send a thank-you note to the reporter after the coverage, including any updates on your petition.
• Update your supporters and share the media coverage on social media to generate more attention.
• Forward press coverage to decision makers to request a meeting or persuade them to take action.
• Use media coverage as leverage to pitch to regional or national outlets for broader coverage.

Remember to adapt these steps to your specific petition and audience. Good luck with your media outreach efforts.