Always ask, “Is now a good time?”Deadlines in journalism are unrelenting and unforgiving. Using these as your first words after “hello” shows the reporter you’re sympathetic to her needs. It also ensures your pitch gets heard when the reporter is devoting proper attention.Your goal: attractIn your first contact with a reporter, don’t come off like a talking encyclopedia. Your job now is to attract and interest them – not to deliver the whole story yet. Keep it short and enticing.Offer that repor.