To Pitch To Journalists,
Learn To Think Like A Journalist.
My Media Training and Communication Skills sessions are designed to give you the best insight into how and why journalists make the decisions they do - delivered by someone who’s made exactly those decisions myself.
Media Training, Communications Workshops & Consultancy
In order to pitch to a journalist - you should think like one.
I can help. I have more than 20 years experience of working in senior roles in a BBC newsroom - making the kind of decisions every day you need to understand.
Now I can help you understand how, who, when and where best to pitch.
I can deliver media training for large or small businesses, engage in lecturing and take on consultancy work in all aspects of news, media or decision-making skills.
My media training is bespoke - I tailor what I deliver to you.
“James taught me the difference between a good story and a great story… he would make a great mentor or coach to anyone looking to sharpen their skills in broadcasting, content or any area of media."”
— Alex Bell, now PR & Content Manager, Inked PRFAQs
What does Media Training involve?I design my media training around your needs. What does that mean in practice? Well, we will have a video chat beforehand in which we work out the priorities you’re looking to address - perhaps how to pitch, maybe who to pitch to, or maybe simply giving you a greater understanding of the media landscape.
Then depending on what is jointly decided, I’ll present you with a formal document detailing the session proposed and its structure; liaise on any further changes and then move to fixing a date. Once that’s confirmed, we ask for a 50% deposit - the remainder payable on completion of the session.
I then work on delivering your workshop!
How Much Does It Cost?All my packages are bespoke. That means there is no standard fee - it depends entirely on what you need.
But you want an idea, right? Well…to give you a guideline, for a standard session delivered by me to 4-6 people for a communications consultancy I’d be looking at approximately £3000 + Travel.
I have different rates for charities and non-profits - and will adapt to fit your budget.
Getting started is simple. Reach out through the contact form or schedule a call—I’ll walk you through the next steps and answer any questions along the way.
What makes Phonogram Media Training different?I have access to a network of hugely experienced journalists, presenters, camerapeople, technicians and writers on whom I can call to truly make your experience bespoke.
Whether you want one-on-one mock television interviews, the full radio reporting experience or a deep dive into how the media sector operates for your PR consultants - I can adapt what we offer so you’re happy.
All of those who help deliver come specially selected - guaranteed to be very good at their jobs, and most importantly - friendly, decent humans!
It’s all about making sure you can communicate clearly - and get reliable results.