Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using HARO

Help a Reporter Out (HARO) is a well-known platform that plays a crucial role in linking experts and journalists. However, there can be pitfalls that can limit your success as a HARO respondent. In this blog post, we will uncover ten common mistakes to avoid when using HARO to enhance your PR efforts.

This article is part of our series on HARO.

One of the most common errors we observe is a lack of comprehension of the reporter’s needs. This usually results from not reading the query thoroughly. While it may seem like a no-brainer, rushing through these queries can lead to misinterpretation and irrelevant pitches.

How to avoid this mistake:

Ensure to take the time to read and understand every query before sending your pitch. Make sure your response answers the reporter’s specific questions and aligns with their context.

This mistake involves pitching for a query where your expertise or experience doesn't align.

How to avoid this mistake:

You must only pitch for the queries where you can offer unique, valuable insights. Do not pitch if you don't have direct experience or knowledge on the topic.

HARO reporters often receive hundreds of responses to a single query, so it’s important to make your pitch as accessible as possible.

How to avoid this mistake:

Always include your full response in the body of your email. This will make it easier and faster for the reporter to review your pitch.

A common mistake that respondents make is sending out the same generic response to different journalists.

How to avoid this mistake:

Each journalist has a unique style, audience, and context they are writing for. Tailor your pitch to their specific scenario to make it more appealing.

Providing evidence of your expertise lies at the heart of a good HARO response.

How to avoid this mistake:

Take time to establish credibility within your response. This could be through referencing past work, citing professional qualifications, or mentioning key industry figures who you've collaborated with.

The reporter may not respond to your initial pitch. It doesn’t necessarily mean your pitch wasn’t good enough.

How to avoid this mistake:

Be proactive and follow up with the reporter after a few days. But don't overdo it – a single follow-up is typically enough.

The biggest mistake you can make is not responding in a timely manner. Responses must be sent before the deadline specified in the query.

How to avoid this mistake:

Ensure quick responses by checking HARO queries at least a few times a day, and always respond well before the deadline.

Pitching to a broad spectrum of reporters, regardless of their beat, is a common mistake. It typically results in wasted efforts and poor response rates.

How to avoid this mistake:

Have a clear understanding of the reporter’s beat and the type of content they put out. It will allow you to target your pitches better.

While it’s important to showcase your expertise, avoid using too much jargon that might confuse the reporter.

How to avoid this mistake:

While showcasing your expertise, ensure your pitch is clear, concise, and easily understandable.

Overloading your pitch with too many links can make your pitch look more like spam and less like a credible pitch.

How to avoid this mistake:

Stick only to necessary links - like your website or portfolio. This will keep your email looking professional and trustworthy.

In conclusion, understanding these common mistakes and their corresponding solutions are key to crafting an effective HARO pitch. Avoiding these pitfalls enhances your chances of getting featured, thereby boosting your brand's PR effectiveness through HARO.

In conclusion, understanding these common mistakes and their corresponding solutions are key to crafting an effective HARO pitch. Avoiding these pitfalls enhances your chances of getting featured, thereby boosting your brand's PR effectiveness through HARO.