A new survey from PRWeek and PR Newswire shows that more journalists are using social networks and blogs for story sources. In 2009, 25 percent of journalists used a company blog for sources, and 24 percent used social networks (such as Twitter and Facebook). In 2009, those numbers jumped to 34 percent and 33 percent, respectively.
"Journalists are doing more with less," said Sarah Skerkik, VP of distribution services at PR Newswire. "They seem to be acting more aggressively about finding their stories, digging a bit deeper for story angles."
But it's not just broadcasting news, dropping links and providing content on company blogs that is gaining the attention of journalists. What might be even more important is the opportunity for good old-fashioned relationship building - the ever-important virtual rolodex that is and has always been the most important tool for any journalist. According to the survey, 43 percent of journalists have been pitched through social media, up from 31 percent in 2009.
Looking for a head start? Review this list of 100 Retweet Targets for Web Professionals, including many accounts to follow to help get in front of journalists and PR professionals.
