Use HARO to source expert quotes
Use HARO to source expert quotes
1. Create an account on HARO by registering and confirming your email and subscribe to the industry feeds you’re interested in.
To add requests, your website should be launched at least one month before the submission, and should have an Alexa ranking of 1 million or less. If you don’t fit these requirements, your request won’t be published.
2. Create a character sketch of experts in your industry to determine who can make a meaningful contribution to your marketing strategy and goals.
Consult the marketing and content teams or others in your company to determine the best profiles to target. Be specific; for example, I’m looking for a content strategist.
3. Make a request on HARO that includes the topic, subject-matter expert profile you’re looking for, and specific questions you’d like the expert to answer.
Keep your query short, simple, and conversational. For example, I’m looking for a marketing specialist who can tell me what’s driving B2B strategies in 2021. Ask sources to include a headshot, contact info and links to website and social media channels. Set a deadline (date and time) for sources to send you their pitches.
4. Mention that you are willing to link to the source's digital profiles and website.
5. Organize your inbox so HARO pitches are kept in a dedicated folder.
6. Make requests well in advance of your due date and be prepared to move fast once you’ve made your request.
You can also approach HARO as an industry expert yourself, responding to pitches from journalists looking for sources.
7. Build long-term relationships by providing your contact information, keeping in touch with sources, and looking for opportunities to collaborate.
Follow your sources on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and continue to build the relationship beyond the first contact.