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: David Rose, KCPQ and Washington’s Most Wanted
As the Executive Producer and host of Washington’s Most Wanted, David has a passion for giving a voice to victims. He launched the half-hour weekly show in November 2008 in partnership with more than 60 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies as well as area Crime Stoppers programs. To date, the show has helped police capture more than 330 fugitives. David has also appeared as a correspondent on America’s Most Wanted with John Walsh in May 2011 to ask for the public’s help in finding a child rapist from Pierce County who had been on the run for a decade. The segment led to the fugitive’s capture in St. Louis – and a long-term prison sentence. In addition to Washington’s Most Wanted, you can also find him at the Q13 Fox News anchor desk David at 9 and 10 p.m.
Q: What’s the best thing about being in the Seattle media scene?
A: I have the opportunity every day to help victim’s find justice and to tell compelling stories.
Q: How has social mediachanged what you do?
A: Information moves much more quickly now than it ever has. Social media is one of the most important aspects of my job. I manage two Twitter accounts and three Facebook pages in addition to providing content to www.Q13Fox.com and www.catchwmw.com. When I have a big story break, more often than not, I do it through social media first. Many of the tips I get on breaking news stories come from followers on Facebook and Twitter which allows me to communicate with them to get photos, video or additional information. News is a two-way conversation now which is wonderful.
Q: If you could have someone else’s job, what would it be?
A: John Walsh but nobody can replace him or match what he has done for families of missing kids and victims of crime. I am content with the opportunity I get each week to help the communities in Washington.
Q: Press releases: Love them or hate them?
A: Love them as long as they pitch something relevant to my job. For example, I get a lot of press releases about book author interviews and products but none of them are available for interviews in Seattle. I don’t need a press release that doesn’t give me the opportunity to shoot video and do interviews here where we live.
Q: What hidden talent or skill do you have that viewers/readers don’t know about you?
A: I am the ultimate multi-tasker. I can be using Facebook, tweeting, tweaking scripts, texting and chatting with viewers all while anchoring the newscast. I just can’t pull my ear or wink at you on camera if you ask J
The PR Pro Takeaway: Take note of the use of the word Washington in David’s responses. He’s local and his pitches should always have a local tie. As with many broadcast journalists, it’s good to include the visual concept of your pitch to David. And never be afraid to reach out via social media, even if you see him on air.