Short answer: Journalist request platforms connect reporters who need expert quotes with people who can answer. When your answer is used, you are quoted in an article, often with a link to your website. HARO popularised the idea; HARO alternatives today include Qwoted, Featured, SourceBottle and #JournoRequest on X. Success depends on fast, specific and genuinely expert answers, not on volume.
For trainers, consultants and business owners, these platforms are one of the few ways to earn links from large publications without an agency.
Platforms to Know
| Platform | Notes |
|---|---|
| HARO | The original service; it has changed ownership, so check its current status |
| Qwoted | Expert profiles and journalist requests |
| Featured | Expert question answering for publications |
| SourceBottle | Requests from Australia, the UK, the US and more |
| #JournoRequest on X | Free journalist requests posted publicly |
| LinkedIn and local reporter networks | Direct relationships with Indian journalists |
Features, pricing and quality change often. Test a platform for a few weeks before paying.
How to Write a Response That Gets Picked
- Answer fast. Journalists often use the first strong replies.
- Lead with the answer in the first two lines.
- Add a specific example, number or insight only you can give.
- Keep it short: 100 to 200 words.
- Include credentials in one line: name, role, company, website.
- Answer only what you genuinely know.
What Not to Do
- Answer every request to increase chances.
- Send generic AI-written answers; editors notice.
- Demand a link as a condition of the quote.
Track Your Results
Record each pitch, the publication, whether it was used and whether a link was given. Unlinked mentions can still be valuable; see brand mentions vs backlinks. For the wider approach, read digital PR for small business.
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Learn Expert Outreach
The SEO course in Faridabad at AdifySkills teaches outreach and PR for earning editorial links.
Key takeaways on Journalist request platforms backlinks
- PlatformNotes
HAROThe original service; it has changed ownership, so check its current status
QwotedExpert profiles and journalist requests
FeaturedExpert ques - Answer fast. Journalists often use the first strong replies.
- Answer every request to increase chances.
- Record each pitch, the publication, whether it was used and whether a link was given.
- The SEO course in Faridabad at AdifySkills teaches outreach and PR for earning editorial links.
Further reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HARO?
Help a Reporter Out, a service that sends journalist requests for expert sources.
Do journalist platforms give dofollow links?
Sometimes. It depends on the publication’s link policy.
Are these platforms free?
Some offer free plans; others charge for more requests.
Can Indian businesses use them?
Yes, especially for global or industry topics where you have expertise.
Related Reading
Want to learn this with live campaigns and a trainer beside you? See the full digital marketing course in Faridabad, or check admission and batch dates.