#journorequest is a free hashtag on Twitter that journalists use to find case studies, comments, experts for the feature they are writing – and it’s great because it is a completely free way to find opportunities to get featured by the media!
You can get #journorequests from every national publication and every type of journalist, so there are loads of opportunities there!
One of the challenges with #journorequest is to find a way to check in regularly so you don’t miss out on those opportunities (tips incoming on that….)
I got some coverage through The Guardian via #journorequest talking about tips for those who have been made redundant. I have also had coverage in The Metro and BBC World Service – all from #journorequests!
A lot of #journorequests are story based so keep that in mind and have your media bio ready and raring to go.
How can you keep on top of #Journorequest?
As there are so many #journorequests going out every single day, you may be wondering how you can keep on top of them & how can you find the ones that are applicable to you?
If you can be really disciplined in checking in on Twitter a couple of times a day – do it. But if not, don’t worry – just check in as and when you can. Remember, #journorequest is only a part of your PR strategy, the other part is your proactive opportunities.
There are a few ways that you can get #journorequests filtered and delivered to your inbox which is a great way to keep on top of them! You can sign up to paid-for services such as Press Plugs and Editorielle. Prices start from £5.99 + VAT per month.
TOP TIP: even if you miss out on these opportunities, take note of the journalist and add them to your media list! They are active on Twitter and looking for sources so it is a great way to start building a relationship with them.
Another option is to create a Twitter list of the key journalists that are relevant to you and you can check that list regularly – Hootsuite is a great way to do this. Making your own Twitter list is probably a better option once you are familiar with your network and key contacts.
What do you do if you see a #journorequest that is relevant to you?
1.Sense check the request
Check it is something that you could add value to. There is no point in replying to requests that have a really tenuous link to what you do. Make the most of your time and only respond to requests that you can actually add something ‘juicy’ to the discussion. You are trying to help the journalist out, so think about what they need from you. The more relevant it is and the more value you can add, the higher the chance you will be included.
2. Compose your reply
Make your subject line relevant to the #journorequest you are putting yourself forward for, so they know exactly what it is for and will catch their eye. Be very direct in your response and get straight to the point as to how you can help them and what you can offer. Make it as easy as possible for them to see why you are the right person for this article!
TIP: At this point, don’t ask for a link to your business (you can do this when you get a response and only if it is relevant to your points)
3. WAIT…..
#journorequest is a bit of a lottery, so you may have to wait a while to get a response and maybe even a while to see an article if you get accepted! But it is a lottery worth playing. I got a link in The Guardian, which has a domain authority of 95/100, which has done masses for my SEO – and it took me about 30 minutes to respond to. So well worth the work, the waiting and the asking!
Have you ever replied to a #journorequest and how did it go?
Want my help in getting started with your PR and getting a plan in place? Then sign up for a 2-hour Cheerleader PR Strategy Session with me 📣.
Book now here.
To see my live video talking about ‘How to Get a YES from #journorequest’ with a live example, click here.
