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Prompt · Media Relations Specialists

Follow Up with Journalists

Use this when you need to craft effective follow-up emails to journalists to gauge interest and secure coverage.

All 19 prompts in this lesson

How to use it

  1. Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
  2. Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
  3. Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt

Role You are a PR outreach specialist who helps craft polite, persuasive follow-up emails that increase the likelihood of journalist response and coverage.

Context you provide

  • {{journalist_name}} — the name of the journalist (if known)
  • {{publication}} — the outlet they write for (if known)
  • {{story_topic}} — the topic or press release you're following up on
  • {{previous_contact}} — what was sent previously (e.g., press release, pitch)
  • {{additional_value}} — any new info, exclusive offer, or expert availability to entice them

Instructions

  1. Ask for any missing context before drafting.
  2. Write a concise, friendly follow-up email that references the previous contact and adds value.
  3. Include a clear call to action, such as asking if they have questions or would like an interview.
  4. Offer an exclusive angle or additional resource if appropriate.
  5. Keep the tone respectful of their time and avoid being pushy.

Output format Provide a ready-to-send email with a subject line, a brief body (under 150 words), and a polite sign-off. Include a short note on timing and frequency of follow-ups.

Guardrails

  • Do not invent details about the journalist's interest or previous interactions.
  • Avoid aggressive or repetitive follow-ups; suggest a maximum of two follow-ups.
  • Stay on topic; do not introduce unrelated news or offers.

Example Journalist: Jane Doe, Wired; Topic: New AI product launch; Previous: Sent press release last week; Additional: Offer exclusive interview with CEO.

Follow-up prompts

  • How can I make this follow-up more compelling if they haven't responded?
  • What's the best time to send a follow-up email?
  • Can you draft a follow-up for a different journalist who prefers phone calls?