It's bound to happen. After cultivating a mutually beneficial relationship with a journalist, you receive a mass email with the news that the person is leaving the company. What should you do? In a recent post at the Bad Pitch Blog, Kevin Dugan offers his advice:

Get the scoop. Find out why the journalist is vacating her post. Was it for a promotion, to take another job, to freelance or to pursue other opportunities? (The last is almost always a euphemism meaning the person was fired.) The reason will influence how you follow up.

Take action. If possible, ask for a letter of introduction to the new person. This may bolster your credibility with the incoming reporter.

Follow. If the journalist's new job covers the same beat, you should be able to continue the relationship. If not, this might signal an end to your use as a source. In this case, offer contact information for a trusted colleague who can be of assistance on the new beat. You lose nothing in the transaction and get credit for the favor.

Start over. Even with a smooth hand-off, you're beginning a fresh relationship with the new journalist. There are no guarantees. Get acquainted with his previous work, and learn what interests him.

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