Brain Power for Free Press!

Help a Reporter (HARO) is a new media service (which outgrew its Facebook group) where journalists post queries and experts pitch their expertise. If you are on an entrepreneurial journey or want to promote an existing business, becoming a valued resource for a respective reporter is an excellent way to build your professional brand and raise your profile. You will also be providing a valuable service (your time and talent) to reporters and those members of the general public interested in the subject matter.

Peter Shankman started this service and has a great philosophy on why its free (he says if you feel you must donate for his services, to please do so to your local animal shelter or other similar group). He feels that connecting people in this way spreads good karma and I couldn’t agree more!

HARO is simple to use. Register as a source by entering your name and email address. Each day you’ll receive up to three emails with a list of 15-30 queries of reporters seeking sources. If you see a query that is in-line with your background and expertise, you contact the reporter directly.

Free media coverage is great for your professional brand and your business! It is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Once you are quoted, you can use your quote(s) on your Web site and other promotional materials or link to the quote on your blog (you are blogging, aren’t you?) to further brand yourself.

This is also a powerful way to organically spread the word about who you are and what you are doing. Be sure if you get quoted, to “tweet” about it with a link to your mention.

If you are not already “tweeting” on Twitter you should be! Be sure to sign up for a F*REE account and follow me at www.twitter.com/upwardaction.

Expect the Best!

Coach T.C.

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