Media exposure isn’t just for celebrities or Fortune 500 CEOs. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, author, industry expert, or professional, media visibility can elevate your credibility, expand your reach, and create new opportunities. Yet many people shy away from seeking media attention, believing they need a PR team or viral fame to get noticed.
The reality? You can land media coverage with the right strategy. It’s all about telling a compelling story and reaching the right journalists or outlets. If you want to share your accomplishments with a broader audience, here’s how to get featured in the media.
Step 1: Define Your Unique Story
Media outlets don’t just cover generic success stories—they highlight newsworthy and engaging narratives. Instead of simply announcing an achievement, find an angle that makes your story stand out.
Here are a few ways to position your accomplishments as media-worthy:
- Tie your story to a trending topic. Are you innovating in an industry that’s currently making headlines? Can you offer expert insights on a hot-button issue?
- Highlight your impact. How has your work changed lives, solved a major problem, or disrupted the status quo?
- Showcase personal triumph. Did you overcome significant obstacles to achieve your success? Personal journeys of resilience resonate deeply with audiences.
- Align with national observances. If your accomplishment relates to Women’s History Month, Small Business Month, or National Entrepreneurs’ Day, journalists are more likely to cover it.
Step 2: Identify the Right Media Outlets
Not all press is created equal. Instead of casting a wide net, focus on the media platforms that best align with your industry and target audience.
Here’s how to find the right outlets:
- Look for niche publications. If you’re in tech, target industry blogs and podcasts. If you’re a wellness entrepreneur, aim for health-related media.
- Start local. Local TV stations, newspapers, and radio shows are great stepping stones to national exposure.
- Follow journalists covering your niche. Many reporters specialize in specific topics—connect with those who already write about your industry.
- Use media request platforms. Websites like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) and Qwoted connect experts with journalists looking for sources.
Step 3: Craft a Strong Media Pitch
A great pitch can mean the difference between getting ignored and getting featured. Here’s how to structure yours:
- Engaging subject line. Journalists get hundreds of emails daily—make yours stand out with a compelling hook.
- Concise and clear introduction. Keep it short, introduce yourself, and explain why your story is relevant.
- Focus on the audience. Make it about them, not just you. Why would their readers or viewers care about your story?
- Offer something valuable. Position yourself as a resource—whether it’s an expert opinion, industry insight, or an inspiring journey.
- Call to action. Let them know what you’re offering (interview, guest article, or exclusive insight) and how they can contact you.
What NOT to do:
- Don’t send a generic, mass email—personalize each pitch.
- Don’t make the pitch all about yourself—frame it in a way that benefits their audience.
- Don’t forget to follow up if you don’t hear back.
Step 4: Build Relationships with Journalists
Media exposure isn’t just about landing one feature—it’s about building long-term relationships with journalists. Here’s how:
- Engage with their work. Follow journalists on Twitter or LinkedIn, comment on their articles, and share their content before pitching.
- Be a resource. Offer insights or data that could help them with future stories, even if it’s not about you.
- Stay available. If a journalist reaches out, respond quickly. Timeliness increases your chances of being featured.
Step 5: Leverage Media Coverage for More Opportunities
Once you land a media feature, maximize its impact. Here’s how:
- Share it everywhere. Post your feature on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and your website.
- Use media logos. Adding “As Seen In” logos to your website or marketing materials boosts credibility.
- Repurpose the content. Turn an article or interview into a blog post, email newsletter, or social media clips.
- Pitch more outlets. One media mention increases your credibility—use it to pitch larger platforms.
Final Thoughts
Getting featured in the media isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, storytelling, and persistence. Whether you’re growing a business, launching a project, or positioning yourself as a thought leader, the right media exposure can open doors.
Take action today: Research one media outlet in your industry and craft a personalized pitch. Visibility leads to opportunities, and you deserve both.