As a freelancer, getting your work out there for others to see the amazing work that you’re doing can take a lot of work. But, thankfully, there are some ways to make this a little easier. And getting press coverage is one of these ways. As a freelance journalist, I have been featured in publications for my freelance work. I’ve also written press releases for businesses who want to feature in the press. I thought I’d share some tips that I’ve found helpful on how to get press coverage as a freelancer.
1. Research Relevant Publications: How To Get Press Coverage
Research publications that are likely to have an audience of clients you are trying to attract. Google Sheets is a great way to record this type of research. You could make columns on the name of publications, what type of content they feature and contacts of the editors, for example. This could help narrow down which ones are best to approach.
2. Write A Press Release With A News Story Hook
If you are launching a new service or had a recent event, this can be an attractive hook for journalists that you are pitching to. Create a press release that mentions this. This makes it easier for the journalist to see how your story can fit into a story on their site.
3. Make Your Subject Headline Eye-Catching
Try to be creative, but not spammy, with the subject line you choose when sending your email to the desired publication in which you want to be featured. This is where reaching into the publication is handy as you can get a better sense of what is likely to grab their attention.
4. Consider Reaching Out To A Publication For Backlinks
Another way to get featured in a publication is to contact them for backlinks. This is strictly for online publications, though. Backlinks help with SEO for your website that you request them to feature on your site.
Send an email to the blog or publication you would like to have your website link on or work in one of their existing articles, for example.
5. Consider Reaching Out As A Feature Writer
Another way to get featured in publications is by reaching out to write for them, and in return, they can mention your website or services at the end of the article, for example. Think of a topic their readers would like but also links to your expertise. Pitch it to the publication and see what they think.
6. Follow Journalists on Twitter
X (formerly Twitter) has so many opportunities! Follow journalists and editors of publications on here, as many of them share pitching opportunities and journalist requests when looking for a story. Who knows, maybe the freelance service you offer is something they are looking to cover in their next piece.
The hashtag #journorequest is a good one to follow to snoop for opportunities. Updating your X bio and profile can also help your searchability if journalists are looking for a story in your industry.
7. Keep Active On Social Media: How To Get Press Coverage
Sometimes, naturally, opportunities to get featured fall into your lap, just from you being consistent with sharing your work! For example, I found out that a blog that had been following my Instagram for a while had featured me on one of their website. I didn’t realise until they tagged me in the post once it was published. Sometimes, just staying consistent and believing in your work will cause other people to organically notice you and consequently want to approach you first for a feature. How great is that?
I hope these tips on how to get press coverage as a freelancer help you.
If you’re looking for further guidance on how to build your brand as a freelance just starting, check out my Beginner Freelancer E-course.
