Article

Having a celebrity interview, quote or picture in a publication can really draw readers' interest, so celebrity involvement is much coveted, and very worthwhile.

A few weeks ago, on a normal Tuesday afternoon, the phone rang in the office.

"Hello, ngo.media," I answered. "Is Jennifer there?" said a deep, gentlemanly voice.

"This is David Attenborough."

I almost fell off my chair. I had been trying to get in touch with Sir Attenborough for weeks to interview him for a book we're working on for conservation charity BTCV. I'd made phone calls, sent letters and emails, but all to no avail.

Until now. Embarrassingly, I had no questions prepared. But, somehow, I managed to pull it together and get the information and quotes I needed.

The experience got me thinking about how much work it can take to get celebrities involved with charities and their publications. How do you get someone famous to speak up on behalf of your organisation?

Having a celebrity interview, quote or picture in a publication can really draw readers' interest, so celebrity involvement is much coveted, and very worthwhile.

Now, here at ngo.media, we're hardly heat magazine. But we have spoken to our fair share of celebrities. Conservationists seem to be something of a speciality for us; as well as Sir Attenborough, we've interviewed Bill Oddie, David Bellamy and Alan Titchmarsh. We've also ghost written pieces for the likes of the Duke of Edinburgh, author Bill Bryson and Cherie Blair. All for charities.

Sometimes, if the celebrity in question is involved with them already, the charities we work with to produce publications provide us with contacts. However, we've often had to track down the stars charities want ourselves.

How have we managed it? Read on for our five top tips on getting the celebrity you want for your charity:

1. Speak to the right person
It can be difficult to find out who a celebrity's agent is on the internet; the information isn't always freely available. But start with a Google search of "name + agent" and a look on the person's own website if they have one. If you can't find the information for free, there are a number of subscription websites that hold agent names. Most agencies will want a request by email, but it's best to phone the agency first to ensure you're emailing the correct person.

2. Make a good case
When you write or speak to an agent, make sure you present yourself clearly and concisely. Don't expect the agent to know who your charity is automatically; make the good you do clear. Make notes before you speak to the agent, or take the time to put together a well-written email.

3. Be clear about what you want
When speaking to an agent, be clear about what exactly you want from the celebrity. Is it a quote? Or a full interview? Also mention what the celebrity might stand to gain from being involved with you - more exposure, perhaps?

4. Don't give up
Until you get a firm "no", keep phoning and emailing your celebrity's agent. They'll most likely respect and take notice of your persistence (although we can't guarantee you won't get short shrift...).

5. Be prepared
Celebrities can get in touch at any time, so preparing a list of questions is a good idea. Two days after the Attenborough incident, Bill Oddie phoned for the same project. And, this time, I was prepared.

Jennifer Campbell is writer at charities copywriting agency ngo.media.