We all know about getting back links from article directories and guest blog posts, but here’s a service you might not have tapped into yet…
I read this in Website Magazine the other day:
Several free subscription services on the Internet bring together reporters, bloggers and authors looking for answers to specific questions and support on articles/stories that are actively in production. In some cases, those seeking support are under deadline so if you are fast and helpful, getting links through these services is a snap.
Free services/sites such as HARO, Reporter Connection, PitchRate, Flacklist and the paid service ProfNet are the most popular – if not the most effective – ways to earn links to your website. The services typically follow a similar pattern: reporters ask questions about very specific topics; others respond if the questions relate to their area of knowledge or experetise. Then the reporter credits you and your Web property as a source, usually via a backlink. Bingo. We’ve got links!
While there is no guarantee you will receive coverage (such is life in the PR industry) even a few mentions can generate a great response in relation to building links to your Web property. Take the challenge seriously and you will be rewarded many times over with high-value links that can and will influence search ranking position.
Out of curiosity I signed up with HARO (Help a Reporter Out) and got my first emails today listing the current requests for information. Wow, really interesting! Here are just some of the general topics from this morning’s requests: video-conferencing, computer hacking, dog handling, teachers’ experiences, Hallow’en costumes, insurance, estate planning, real estate, seniors, celebrity interviews, baking with kids, flirting, gardening, slaughterhouses (!), technical questions, online marketing for small businesses, love stories, outdoor gear, travelling with kids, women entrepreneurs, etc. The actual requests are more specific. For example, the request about dog handlers was for ex-military dog handlers who adopted their dogs and live in the NYC area.
What I realized was that I could sign up as a reporter/author, as well as a resource, and send out requests for information on all kinds of topics. Think how you could flesh out and enhance your Web site, blog, ebook, etc. with input from other (knowledgeable) people.
A byline is a powerful tool to use for back-linking. And it works both ways: you can provide information for others and get a byline (back link) for yourself, or you can offer a byline to others for their input to your Web site, blog, book, presentation, report, podcast, etc. Think articles, advice, stories, tips, blog posts, anecdotes, questions, how-to, information, demonstrations, reviews, comparison shopping, evaluations, research, resources, etc. Think humour, mishaps, crises, human interest, rescue, overcoming struggles, and on and on. Think interviewees, podcast guests, event/guest speakers, presentations, webinars, etc. Think YouTube videos: information, tips, demos, how-to, etc.
Let’s say your Web site sells pet ID tags. You could ask for touching stories on disabled dogs, shelter adoptions, rescued cats, hero pets. The list is endless. Photos of the animal wearing your (very cute) pet ID tag would also be great for your business. Give the writer a byline and a free ID tag! End each story with a reminder of how important it is for pets to wear an ID tag. Local media might even pick up on your Web site and feature it on TV or radio. Everyone loves a pet story!
And you could also offer your expertise as a resource when reporters/authors/bloggers are looking for pet information (pet safety, recovering lost pets, how to fit a dog/cat collar, what information should go on a pet ID tag, etc.). That way, you could get a byline and/or back link from publications you never imagined getting published in.
If you have an area of expertise, like mortgages, estate planning, real estate, insurance, credit card debt, etc., publications are always looking for specific information related to these broader topics. Why? Because in this economy everyone is desperate to find solutions to serious financial problems. What kind of information might they be looking for? Here are just three of several requests from today alone: evaluating real estate properties, insurance loopholes related to game show winnings, money mistakes parents make. The requests are even more specific, but you get the idea!
And the topics you see in the requests can give you great ideas for your own Web site, blog, book or podcast.
This service is just win-win all the way around!
