Newspapers (whether national, state, regional, suburban or local) generally report news and events in more depth than either of the broadcast media.
This is partly because of tradition - "the journal of record" - and partly because of the need for balance between advertising and editorial (stories). Newspapers are very conscious of the need to preserve an appropriate balance between the two.
Like all media, newspapers are governed by certain constraints:
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Deadlines are obviously different for morning and evening papers and for different editions of the same paper.
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Space is dependent upon time of the year and day of the week. Some days have more news pages than others. Fewer journalists work on weekends and during holiday periods.
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Editorial style varies from one newspaper to another: tabloids tend to be more racy and sensational. They emphasise human interest. Broadsheets tend to be more serious and considered.
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A journalist's knowledge of a particular subject may be extensive or it may be slight.
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Competing events may take journalists away from your story.
All the foregoing issues should be considered when attempting to place a significant story.
A thorough newspaper interview may take an hour to complete: an investment of time by the journalist that allows for greater understanding and better analysis of the issue or event being reported.
Shorter interviews are far more common, however, and require you to communicate the essential information in a few well-chosen words.
The essence of good communication is to say what you mean. A few ill considered and ill chosen words directed at a journalist can unstitch something very quickly.
Newspaper journalists often telephone for an interview requiring a few short answers to some specific questions. Such interviews often relate to a problem issue and you need to be aware of this.
If time permits, and the journalist has time, try to arrange a one-on-one interview in your office. The dynamic is more personal, less stressful. You are better able to establish and deploy your agenda. This will also help you build your relationships with particular journalists.
The press interview also provides an opportunity for a photograph to be included with the story. Through the journalist, if it's a major interview, you should invite a photographer to be present.