Each Monday, we’re giving readers a chance to get to know the media a little better.
With a little flair.
Our goal is to give readers some insight into the work and work style of area journalists, and get to know a little bit about the person behind the byline. Start your week off with an online networking opportunity through our Media Monday blog post.
This Week: Betsy Robertson, KING 5 Community Relations
Betsy graduated from the University of Washington and launched a career in local television as a KING 5 News intern in 1996. That experience led to a position in the newsroom and ultimately work on the assignment desk and as a special projects field producer. From there she headed to television stations in Missoula, Montana and Madison, Wisconsin working as a one-man-band Reporter, News Producer and fill-in Anchor.
Upon Betsy’s return to Seattle, she headed back to 333 Dexter Ave N. (KING 5’s street address) to manage the assignment desk at their 24-hour regional affiliate, Northwest Cable News. Betsy’s work at NWCN lasted from 2004-2009, at which point she transitioned from the newsroom into her current role in Community Relations for the KING Broadcasting group: KING, KONG and NWCN.
Betsy lives in Shoreline, WA with her husband Darryl Miller and 2 year old daughter Darby. She also serves as a member of the City of Shoreline Parks, Recreation, Cultural Services and Tree Board.
Q: What skills do new journalists need?
A: It seems obvious, but the ability to write clearly and concisely is still the number one requirement. Platforms will change, new bells, whistles and delivery methods will be developed (and you have to know what they are), but the root will always be effective communication.
Q: If you weren’t working at your current job, what would you be doing?
A: The answer changes daily. Sometimes all I can imagine is working in my yard or restoring our family’s farmhouse on Whidbey Island. Then I remember how much I love my job and the access I have to make a difference for so many individuals and non-profit organizations.
Q: Finish this sentence: “A good PR person is …”
A: … able to make each pitch feel exclusive to its recipient and actually deliver on that promise. During my years on an assignment desk, I also appreciated any pitch that had some relevance to that day’s news cycle – rarer than you might guess.
Q: What hidden talent or skill do you have that viewers/readers don’t know about you?
A: I make a mean apple pie.
Q: How has social media changed what you do?
A: It deepens KING’s relationship with our community partners. Social Media allows us to support each other and align our brands throughout the year, beyond the timing of a specific campaign.
The PR Pro Take Away: Betsy has hit on a key point about media pitches – make them specific. Also, great thoughts on social media, from KING 5, a leader in social media. Betsy was a recent visitor to The Fearey Group offices, it was a pleasure to meet with her.