If you’ve ever wondered how brands land mentions on Forbes, TechCrunch, or Business Insider, this guide is for you.

We’ll walk you through the full process of journalist outreach, how HARO used to work, why it was important, and what tools we can use now. You’ll learn how to pitch like a pro, get your name published, and build powerful backlinks.

Most of all, we’ll help you stay ahead in a space that’s changing fast.

The Importance of Media Mentions

Getting featured in reputable media outlets does more than just boost your ego. These mentions create high-quality backlinks that search engines love and establish your brand as a trusted authority in your industry.

When journalists quote or reference your company, they vouch for your credibility. This third-party validation carries significant weight with both search algorithms and potential customers. Backlinks from authoritative news sites and publications can dramatically improve your search rankings.

Media mentions also drive direct referral traffic to your website. Readers who discover your expertise through articles often visit your site to learn more, creating new opportunities for conversions and customer acquisition.

The Rise and Fall of HARO and Connectively

Origins of HARO

HARO (Help a Reporter Out) was launched in 2008 by Peter Shankman.

It quickly became a go-to tool for journalists and sources. Reporters submitted daily queries, and experts replied to be featured.

The platform grew fast. It helped build thousands of HARO backlinks and media mentions.

Acquisition and Rebranding

Vocus bought HARO in 2010. Later, Cision took over in 2014.

By 2023, HARO was rebranded to Connectively. The goal was to modernize the interface and improve filtering. But it didn’t work out.

Challenges and Shutdown

Users reported a decline in query quality and too many irrelevant emails.

Journalist participation dropped. Response rates fell. The interface stayed clunky.

By December 2024, Connectively was officially shut down.

Current Landscape of Journalist Outreach Platforms

Overview of Available Platforms

The journalist outreach space didn’t stop evolving when HARO became Connectively. Multiple platforms emerged to fill gaps in the market, each with unique approaches to connecting sources with media professionals.

Some platforms focus on specific industries or geographic regions. Others emphasize different aspects of the outreach process, from initial connection to relationship management.

The availability of varied options means you can choose journalist outreach platforms that best align with your specific SEO goals and target audiences. However, you must also understand each platform’s strengths and limitations.

Comparison Criteria

When evaluating journalist outreach platforms, consider several key factors.

We look at the following criteria:

Criteria	What It Means
Active journalist base	The number of verified, regularly posting journalists on the platform. More active journalists mean more opportunities for coverage.
Pitch success rate	How often do responses lead to actual media mentions. Higher success rates indicate better journalist engagement and query quality.
Niche targeting	The platform’s ability to connect you with journalists in specific industries or topic areas relevant to your expertise.
Pricing and free options	Cost structure and features that are available without payment. Important for budget planning and testing platforms.
Support and filtering tools	Features that help you find relevant queries quickly and manage your outreach efforts efficiently.

Success rates and user satisfaction provide insight into platform effectiveness. High-performing platforms tend to have engaged journalist communities and quality control measures that improve response rates.

Top 5 Alternatives for HARO Link Building

Featured.com

Featured.com has positioned itself as a comprehensive solution for expert-publisher connections

The platform operates on a project-based model where experts contribute insights to specific content pieces rather than responding to broad queries. This approach provides more context about how your expertise will be used and often results in more substantial coverage.

Key Features:

• Project-based collaboration with clear content briefs
• Direct connection with content publishers and editors
• Comprehensive expert profiles with portfolio showcase
• Integration with major publishing platforms

What makes it a good HARO alternative:

Featured.com’s acquisition of the HARO brand means they understand the community’s needs. Their project-based approach offers more predictable outcomes than traditional query responses, and the platform provides better context for how your contributions will be used.

Qwoted

Qwoted stands out for its rigorous verification process and focus on building lasting relationships between sources and journalists. The platform requires both journalists and sources to complete detailed profiles, creating a more professional environment than many alternatives.

Qwoted emphasizes quality connections over volume, making it appealing to serious professionals.

Key Features:

• Verified journalist and source profiles
• Relationship tracking and management tools
• Industry-specific query filtering
• Mobile app for quick responses

What makes it a good HARO alternative:

Qwoted’s verification process ensures higher-quality interactions and reduces spam. The platform’s relationship-building focus mirrors HARO’s original community spirit while adding modern features that improve matching accuracy.

Source Bottle

Source Bottle is a global platform that connects journalists with expert sources across multiple industries. The platform is particularly strong in the lifestyle, consumer goods, and entertainment sectors.

Source Bottle’s international reach makes it valuable for experts wanting exposure beyond their local markets.

Key Features:

• Global journalist network with international coverage
• Visual response capabilities with image uploads
• Free and premium subscription tiers
• Industry-specific categorization

What makes it a good HARO alternative:

SourceBottle’s global reach extends your potential coverage beyond local markets. The platform’s visual response features work well for product-based businesses, and the free tier provides accessible entry for testing the platform’s effectiveness.

Press Plugs

Press Plugs focuses specifically on UK media outlets, making it the go-to journalist outreach platform for businesses targeting British audiences. The platform’s regional specialization allows for deeper relationships with local journalists and more relevant coverage opportunities.

Press Plugs operates on a subscription model with unlimited query access.

Key Features:

• UK-focused journalist network
• Unlimited query responses on paid plans
• Response tracking and success metrics
• Local market expertise and support

What makes it a good HARO alternative:

Press Plugs’ regional focus eliminates geographic mismatches common in HARO’s global feed. UK businesses get more relevant opportunities, and the subscription model provides predictable costs for active users.

Help A B2B Writer

Help A B2B Writer serves a specific niche by connecting B2B experts with content creators who need authoritative sources.

The platform caters to business publications, marketing blogs, and industry-specific content creators. This focused approach means queries are typically more relevant for business professionals and consultants.

Key Features:

• B2B and business-focused query targeting
• Expert directory with industry specializations
• Content collaboration tools
• Performance tracking and analytics

What makes it a good HARO alternative:

The platform’s B2B focus eliminates irrelevant queries that often clutter HARO’s general feed. Business professionals can expect more targeted opportunities that align with their expertise and target audiences.

Step-by-Step Guide to Journalist Outreach Success

Getting started with journalist outreach platforms can feel overwhelming, but following a systematic approach increases your chances of success.

We’ll walk you through the entire process from setup to securing your first media mention.

Step 1: Choose Your Platforms

Select 2-3 platforms that align with your industry and target audience. Don’t try to be everywhere at once—focus on quality over quantity. Review the comparison criteria discussed earlier and pick platforms where your expertise matches the journalist base.

Research each platform’s requirements and guidelines before signing up. Some platforms have strict verification processes, while others allow immediate participation. Understanding these distinctions helps you set realistic expectations for getting started.

Step 2: Create Compelling Profiles

Your profile serves as your first impression with journalists. Include a professional headshot, a clear bio highlighting your expertise, and specific industry knowledge areas.

Avoid generic descriptions—be specific about what makes you uniquely qualified to comment on your topics.

List your credentials, publications, and relevant experience without overwhelming the reader. Journalists want to understand why you’re a credible source quickly, so organize this information in scannable bullet points or short paragraphs.

Step 3: Set Up Efficient Monitoring

Configure email alerts and notifications to receive queries immediately. Most platforms send daily digests, but some offer real-time notifications for premium subscribers.

Always remember that quick response times significantly improve your chances of being selected.

Create email filters to organize incoming queries by topic or platform. This organization helps you prioritize responses and avoid missing opportunities in your industry areas.

Step 4: Develop Your Response System

Create a template structure for your responses, but never send identical responses to different queries. Your structure should include an attention-grabbing opening, your main points with supporting evidence, your credentials, and contact information.

Prepare supporting materials like high-resolution headshots, brief bio paragraphs, and relevant statistics you can quickly add to responses. Having these materials ready saves time when responding to time-sensitive queries.

Step 5: Craft Your First Response

Read each query carefully and respond directly to what the journalist needs. Start with your most relevant point or strongest credential related to their specific question. Avoid introductory fluff—get straight to the valuable information.

When relevant, include specific examples, data points, or case studies. Journalists prefer concrete information they can quote directly rather than general statements about industry trends.

(We’ll discuss this more in the next section.)

Step 6: Follow Up Strategically

Track your responses using a simple spreadsheet or CRM tool. Note which queries you responded to, when you sent your response, and any follow-up actions needed.

If a journalist uses your quote, send a brief thank-you note and offer to be a resource for future stories. Building these relationships increases your chances of being contacted directly for future opportunities.

Step 7: Measure and Optimize

Monitor your success rate by tracking how many responses result in published mentions. A 10-15% success rate is typical for beginners, with experienced users achieving 20-30% or higher.

Analyze which types of responses perform best and adjust your approach accordingly. Pay attention to response timing, length, and content style to identify patterns in your successful pitches.

Step 8: Scale Your Efforts

Once you’ve mastered one platform, gradually expand to additional platforms. Use the same systematic approach for each new platform while adapting to their specific requirements and community culture.

Consider upgrading to premium features on your most successful platforms. These upgrades often provide earlier access to queries, better filtering options, and enhanced profile visibility.

For those seeking expert support with HARO link building services and journalist outreach, agencies like The Blueprints offer comprehensive HARO outreach solutions, from crafting compelling pitches to building relationships with journalists.

Crafting Effective Pitches

Understanding Journalists’ Needs

Journalists work under tight deadlines and need information they can use immediately. Your response should directly address their specific query without requiring them to dig for relevant details.

Each journalist has their own style and audience preferences. Reading their previous articles helps you understand their approach and tailor your response accordingly.

Deadline awareness is crucial. Journalists often need responses within hours, not days. Quick, relevant responses always perform better than perfect pitches that arrive too late.

Best Practices for Pitching

A. Lead with Your Strongest Point

• Open with your most relevant credential or experience related to the query
• Place your key message in the first sentence to grab attention immediately
• Avoid generic introductions like “I hope this helps” or “Thank you for the opportunity”
• Get straight to the valuable information journalists need

B. Use Concrete Examples and Data

• Include specific statistics, percentages, or dollar amounts when relevant
• Share brief case studies or real scenarios from your experience
• Reference recent studies, surveys, or industry reports to support your points
• Provide concrete timelines or measurable outcomes rather than vague statements

C. Master the Art of Concise Communication

• Aim for 150-300 words per response unless the query specifically requests more
• Use short paragraphs with one main idea per paragraph
• Include only information that directly addresses the journalist’s question
• Remove filler words and unnecessary qualifiers that dilute your message

D. Weave in Your Credentials Naturally

• Mention your expertise within the context of your answer, not as a separate section
• Use phrases like “In my 10 years of managing…” or “When I consulted with Fortune 500 companies…”
• Reference relevant certifications or achievements only when they strengthen your specific point
• Let your knowledge speak for itself, rather than listing every accomplishment

E. Structure for Scannability

• Use bullet points or numbered list formats when presenting multiple (at least 3) related points
• Bold key phrases or statistics that journalists might want to quote
• Include clear paragraph breaks to make your response easy to scan
• End with a brief sentence about your availability for follow-up questions

F. Customize Every Response

• Address the journalist by name when provided in the query
• Reference the specific publication or show they’re writing for
• Tailor your language and examples to match their audience
• Avoid sending identical responses to similar queries from different journalists

Timeliness and Follow-Up

Speed matters more than perfection in journalist outreach. A good response sent quickly outperforms a perfect response sent late.

Follow-ups in your link building strategies should be subtle and value-focused. If you don’t hear back initially, you can send one additional piece of relevant information, but avoid aggressive follow-up tactics.

Some queries specify “no follow-ups,” and you should respect these preferences. Building a reputation for following guidelines increases your chances of being selected for future opportunities.

Tools to Enhance Outreach Efforts

Category	Tools	Primary Function & Key Features	Best For
Outreach Campaign Management	BuzzStream, Pitchbox, Outreach.io, Zoho CRM	Managing multi-platform outreach campaigns, relationship tracking, email sequence automation, CRM integration, team collaboration	Managing complex PR/link building for SEO campaigns
Email Finder & Verification	Hunter.io	Email address discovery, verification, domain search, email pattern analysis	Finding direct journalist contact info
Writing Enhancement	Grammarly	Grammar/spell checking, tone detection, clarity suggestions, professional language recommendations	Ensuring professional, error-free pitches
Monitoring & Tracking	Google Alerts, Ahrefs, Mention	Keyword monitoring, brand mention tracking, backlink analysis, competitor research, sentiment analysis	Staying informed on industry news, brand mentions, and backlink value
Subject Line / Headline Optimization	CoSchedule Headline Analyzer	Headline scoring, emotional impact analysis, word balance optimization, click-through prediction	Crafting compelling email subject lines
Video Communication	Loom	Screen recording, personal video messages, easy sharing, view tracking	Adding a personal touch to follow-ups
Interview Scheduling	Calendly	Automated scheduling, time zone coordination, calendar integration, reminders	Streamlining interview bookings with journalists
Visual Content Creation	Canva	Professional templates, image editing, brand kit integration, social media sizing	Creating visual assets for media kits
Data Collection	Typeform	Interactive surveys, professional forms, response analytics, integration capabilities	Gathering information for story contributions

Measuring the Impact of Outreach

Tracking Backlinks

Tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush monitor when your outreach efforts result in backlinks. These platforms can track new links automatically and provide metrics about link quality and authority.

Regular monitoring helps you understand which types of responses generate the most valuable links. This data informs your strategy for future pitches.

Link tracking also reveals the long-term value of your outreach efforts. Some articles continue generating traffic and authority months or years after publication.

Assessing Referral Traffic from Backlinks

Website analytics show how much traffic your media mentions generate. Referral traffic from trusted publications often converts at higher rates than other sources.

Analyzing referral traffic patterns helps you identify which publications and topics drive the most valuable visitors to your site. This information guides your platform selection and topic focus.

Long-term traffic analysis reveals whether media mentions continue driving visitors over time, helping you understand the lasting value of your outreach investments.

Evaluating Brand Mentions

Brand monitoring tools track when publications mention your company or expertise, even without direct links. These mentions still provide SEO value and brand awareness benefits.

Measuring mention sentiment helps you understand how your outreach efforts affect brand perception. Positive mentions from respected sources enhance your reputation.

Tracking mention frequency over time shows whether your expert outreach for backlinks is increasing your visibility in your industry and target markets.

Wrapping Up

The outreach world has shifted.

HARO and Connectively are gone, but new tools are rising.

Featured.com, Qwoted, SourceBottle, among many others, are working on a HARO SEO reboot, but we can’t rely on one platform.

The best strategy today is to diversify, build relationships, and write strong pitches.

Most importantly, stay consistent.

This SEO space moves fast. But with the right tools and approach, you can keep landing links, mentions, and media exposure.