The Five Rules of HARO
The FIVE RULES OF HARO. Keep them as a sign upon thy hands.
1) You will get three emails a day, M-F, with reporter queries from reporters and outlets from all over the world. Scan the emails, and if you’re knowledgeable about any of the topics, answer the reporter directly.
2) Don’t SPAM reporters with off-topic pitches in response to their queries.
3) You MAY forward queries to friends, but DO NOT post them on blogs or anywhere on the web.
4) You’re not allowed to harvest the reporter email addresses in the HARO emails for any reason. (With the new system implemented in January, you can’t anyway.)
5) Be excellent to each other.
Violating any of the above rules is punishable by any of the following: An email, a warning, being banned from the list, and in extreme cases, being “outed” to the over 33,000 36,000 49,000 85,000 130,000 members of the list. HARO works on mutual trust and support. Don’t violate that.
That’s it. Don’t say you never saw them.
Any others you think should be on there? Leave them in the comments.
September 30th, 2008 at 5:44 pm
Aren’t we supposed to donate to a pet shelter if we have HARO success? That could be rule 6.
September 30th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
#6 Be grateful that this amazing service is free and appreciate all the work Peter does to make it all come together.
September 30th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
People are such asshats. Will retweet this.
September 30th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
I concur with Michelle. I’m retweeting this now.
September 30th, 2008 at 8:21 pm
How about a full page ad with photo in the NYT?
Or a cell phone strapped to the ear with my daughter babbling about her friends, activities, boys, etc. on the other end for 4 hours.
October 1st, 2008 at 3:35 am
I have removed my “I love Mom” tattoo and have inked these rules in their place. Pater, thanks for your work, your queries, your energy.
October 1st, 2008 at 4:46 am
6. When replying to a HARO query, please follow the reporter’s request. If they ask for something specific in the email subject line, put it in there. If they ask you to cut and paste information into an email (instead of sending an attachment), don’t send attachments.
7. If you send a reply and don’t hear anything in six hours, don’t send an email asking, “Just wondering if you’re interested in interviewing me/my expert for your story. I haven’t heard from you yet.” Be patient. HARO is an amazing service that nets reporters hundreds of email responses. It can be challenging to go through them–and respond to people–in a timely basis.
8. If you think you have a better angle for the reporter’s story, don’t reply and tell them that. Most likely this reporter has been assigned this story–or told to research a specific angle–and your telling him/her that the angle is all wrong and you know a better angle for the reporter to take will not endear you to this reporter. It will make that reporter want to avoid talking to your know-it-all self even more.
9. Read the query clearly and beyond the first line of the blurb. Most often if you take the time to read all the way through, you will find out what magazine (or a description of the kind of publication) this reporter is writing for, the specific angle and the details he/she is looking to cover in the story. Do not just hit “reply” after reading the one-line blurb at the top of the HARO dispatch.
I realize that the other responses above were more cheeky but since you asked, I’ve answered.
Leah
October 1st, 2008 at 6:08 am
I agree wholeheartedly to Leah’s #8 and 9 above! I would add:
#6: Don’t reply to a journalist and recommend they Google “such and such.” I know how to do my own research, thanks very much. I’m looking for experts, not a research assistant.
October 1st, 2008 at 8:02 am
Having used HARO as a journalist, I wholeheartedly second Leah’s post.
October 1st, 2008 at 11:08 am
There should be some rules for the reporters too. I pitched a story (on topic) to someone. Not only did they never reply to me about my pitch, but they added me to their e-mail list automatically. It’s someone who is trying to promote her own webinars. I suspect she’s using HARO as a list builder instead of using it for the right reasons. What a shame!!!
That being said, I am grateful for all your work, Peter, and that of your lovely assistant. You guys ROCK!!!
October 1st, 2008 at 11:35 am
Looks like people read this. I put out an inquiry this morning and all have been very high quality. Great service.
October 1st, 2008 at 12:51 pm
#10 or # 6B
Don’t respond by sending:
- just your telephone number – without a clue as to why I might want to call
and interview you
- your blog link – for me to read on my own and then search for the 10 words
that might relate to the question
or to say:
- “Ohhhhh – this is so me! But I don’t have time to talk to you now!”
because you are too busy / too important / whatever to stop and really
answer.
My two cents worth.
October 5th, 2008 at 8:47 am
I recently posted “How to be a Hero on HARO” a few weeks ago. Mostly geared to sources and experts, but I think it’s fun and pretty on the mark. I may have to add a few of your suggestions above, with permission, of course. View the eHow article here http://www.ehow.com/how_4517863_hero-haro.html
Peter: Still waiting for the tweaks :) So glad you enjoyed it!
October 6th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Thanks Peter for all the work you do. I greatly appreciate it and have had much success connecting with genuine people who are willing to help.
October 7th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
As someone with great HARO experiences (as a source and as a blogger looking for sources), I think there needs to be some just way to punish those idiots who use HARO in a way that violates the rules. For example, every Friday or every third Friday, those who have been warned, etc etc will be outed, resulting in _________. I think the justice should be non-violent, not hurt their business in a long term way. BUT the justice must be enough of a threat so that Peter S does not have to remind people not to be assholes every week. My own personal opinion is that a little bit of immaturity, they must write “I won’t be an asshat 500 times” in public. Sorry. Catholic school. Any ideas?
October 13th, 2008 at 3:06 am
I took inspiration from the response #1 regarding donating to a pet shelter … Went to the local RSPCA and rescued a brace of pups that would have been destined for the ‘big needle’. Got a cross poodle/maltese (OK, not a very ‘butch’ kinda dawg – but mein frau Pam is exceedingly pleased – maybe I’m good for another couple of months) Named him Mr Godfrey Norton – and what was descibed to me as a cross Irish wolfhound/damnedifIknow……….she has actually turned out to be a cross wombat/rat. – Named her Miss Irene Adler. Any Sherlock Holmes fan will see the irony in this as both of these two have been de-sexed.
So the message hee is Yes, lets make this rule number 6 ‘To not only donate to a pet shelter but to actually save an animal’s life.’ – It can be eggs treemlee gratifying.
October 13th, 2008 at 4:43 am
Great points.
A couple more:
1. Never send attachments – instead send a link to a photo or more info
2. Don’t respond if you can “kinda fit” into the story – usually you are deluding yourself and wasting the reporter’s time
3. Always respond immediately, even if the deadline is far away, as reporters may get responses in quickly and stop accepting responses
I also have a list at my blog – http://zfpr.com/blog/wordpress.....ter-query/
October 13th, 2008 at 4:57 am
Some very good comments above. We’re beginning to use HARO more and more to source experts, and Peter’s fifth rule is really important. In the context of dealing with a busy journalist at a lean media outlet (as most are) that would mean …
>> Don’t over-communicate in your pitch email.
>> Avoid hyperbole – everyone says they’re a “guru”
>> Give evidence “I worked for Clinton as XYZ” or “I’ve published a bestseller on ABC”
>> Please please please follow any instructions/directions
If you’ve recently sent your details in regarding one of our previous HARO posts, you’ll be hearing from us early this week.
October 24th, 2008 at 10:59 am
Love this brilliant service, and thank you for being a visible example of helping others without demanding a profit because you can and its the right thing to do. I already emergency foster dogs rescued from destruction at the eleventh hour from my local city animal services department, but will share your name and site with others to continue the good karma :)
October 27th, 2008 at 9:46 am
I can’t say enough good things about Peter and this HARO service. I’ve been so giddy about it, I wrote a fun ode to Peter on my blog a few weeks ago: Sorry honey … I’m in love with a skydiver (http://tinyurl.com/3rw5yl). *Huge* HARO fan :-) Mayra
October 27th, 2008 at 9:56 am
Thanks Peter for the incredible amount of work you put into this!
October 27th, 2008 at 10:09 am
9A) When responding to a post, not only should you read beyond the first line for subject matter, but also for GEOGRAPHICAL relevance — many posted specify “Seattle only” or “NY Metro only”…
November 11th, 2008 at 6:36 am
I use HARO for both product placement (my PR hat) and for research for articles (my writer hat). Kudos to Peter, who makes my life so much easier.
November 11th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
When I read the queries, I often think, “Wow, I want to read that article!” forgetting that it hasn’t yet been written. I wish there was an archive of HARO-midwifed articles.
November 12th, 2008 at 8:14 am
HARO was recommended to me by an editor at my publishing company. I absolutely LOVE it. So helpful and Peter’s notes entertain me! I feel so “in the loop!”
November 18th, 2008 at 8:22 am
Hey, there Peter. I posted a comment way back when (it’s #7 above), when you first created the 5 rules of HARO. I decided to post again today because of your message about banning folks for suggesting a sidebar and your considering that to be an off-topic pitch.
Even though my suggestions above recommended not telling a reporter a NEW angle for the story, I don’t believe that suggesting an option for a sidebar is a ban-able offense. Here’s why.
I can’t tell you how many times a PR person, with some kick-ass stats or an interesting profile in a press kit, has helped me to pitch a box or sidebar to my story–something I wouldn’t have come up with as easily on my own. Editors love it when freelancers can present complete packages with their ideas, which is where sidebar help comes in. Plus, as a writer with a blog, I’ve often been inspired to include additional information on a topic I’m covering, because of a sidebar-like suggestion from a PR person.
So as a freelance writer who worships at the altar of Peter Shankman, I ask that you reconsider your damnation of those who respond to a HARO query by suggesting a sidebar. I know it doesn’t offend me. Maybe I’m in the minority of freelance writers, but I just had to speak my mind. Thanks.
Leah
December 1st, 2008 at 10:54 am
As someone new to HARO, and awed by the Peter Shankman world-tour, I appreciate all the suggestions regarding proper pitches, time considerations and need for tact. Thank you to everyone that contributes to making HARO an uncompromised resource. SLM-
December 5th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
[...] join the ranks of 36,000 savvy others, do yourself a big favor and familiarize yourself with the rules. Such as: Do not spam reporters. Do not harvest reporters’ email addresses and add them to [...]
December 15th, 2008 at 4:09 am
Peter,
Brilliant service, thank you, the rules are fair and appreciated!
December 15th, 2008 at 6:55 am
I recently wrote to Peter directly about some my concerns, but second a few of these opinions. I am a freelancer and author who uses HARO a lot (and recently told a few Canadian sources they need to be on it as well). When it works, it’s amazing. But when someone says “I’m great…call me! I’m really busy. Keep trying” they are wasting my time by making me even read their reply. Be readily available! Really annoying — if you volunteer to answer a reporter’s request that person is on deadline, may be sifting through 100s of replies and can’t be chasing you down.
Remember that if someone is freelance and writing for a magazine, don’t assume you can get back to them more slowly, as their deadline can be just as tight as someone from a major daily, as we all juggle so many stories at once.
DO NOT keep emailing me long helpful emails (i.e. these are interviews, OK? You are on the record) — then suddenly demand to see my clips and other proof of my credentials. Google me, visit my website, decide I’m legit — then hit reply.
I agree with Leah; suggesting ideas for sidebars is fine with me, too,
But sending me unrequested pitches from regions and issues I do not cover is a blatant and repeated abuse of this cool system — it has happened to me multiple times.
Thanks, Peter!!
Caitlin
December 15th, 2008 at 8:42 am
I would add you get one “oops” for those of us who have just come aboard. I confess I did reply with a thought of a different angle. Sorry, will be more cautious next time.
Thanks for being flexible, Sharon
December 16th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
OK, just thought of two more rules that I would add to the already expanded list.
#10 Do not reply if you/your source is not available within the reporter’s timeline/deadline period. I can’t tell you how frustrating it is to be on deadline, need someone fast (thanks, Peter, for tweeting those last-minute requests), have a great source/PR person respond, only to discover that the person really isn’t available to speak with me when I need to speak with that someone. Better yet, check FIRST with your source/client before responding.
Also, if someone is on a tight deadline and you can’t do a phoner, offering to help the writer out via an email Q&A is a great Plan B.
Thanks for reading!
Leah
December 29th, 2008 at 4:27 am
As someone who’s worked for newspapers and magazines (production not editorial)
Don’t call to complain about how your picture was cropped to the editor who gave you free publicity.
If there’s a mistake in the article, send a big thank you for running the story and gently input the correction to the story.
Suzanne in CT
December 29th, 2008 at 4:28 am
One more thought I haven’t seen:
Don’t pitch HARO to get great stories and anecdotes to flesh out your story, and then decide to simply use the stories without crediting the expert/author who helped you with great stuff on deadline.
This happened to me recently when I helped a columnist with some fantastic stories from my client files, and made it clear that I was obviously doing it in exchange for being mentioned as the expert or author. The columnist instantly started to hedge about citing his source, saying that “editors always cut stuff like that.”
So we should all remember that this is a quid pro quo that works when people behave with integrity on both sides of the equation. I’ve been a reporter AND a source, and it’s not fair to take advantage of either side.
December 29th, 2008 at 4:31 am
Oh,
Don’t call repeatedly asking when your story will run in newspaper, human interest stories get bumped for more immediate news. To do so means you’ll take free publicity but not bother to buy their newspaper/magazine etc.
editors are very busy people, they run on caffeine.
Suzanne in CT (again)
December 29th, 2008 at 9:12 am
SIDEBAR PITCHES:
If you’re going to pitch a sidebar idea, warn the reporter in your subject line. If they have the time or need to consider a sidebar they can read it. If not then not.
If you also have a truly on-topic pitch, do it in a separate email.
January 6th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
With respect to original rules #2 & #4, and comment #24 from Mike Van Horn:
Is there a problem with writing to a reporter and saying something like: “Hey, I read your query on HARO and that story sounds interesting, send me a link/email/whatever when it is published”.
I would think that would be a good thing. It shows interest in the topic and the possible development of a following for the reporter, the topic, and the site on which it will appear. That in turn could lead to follow up articles, interviews, whatever. But as I read the rules, this would violate both rules #2 & #4. Can we get some clarity / relief on this matter?
February 2nd, 2009 at 9:44 am
Guess the summary of many of the comments could be HARO: Help A Reporter Out, not WART: Waste A Reporter’s Time. (And, of course, be excellent to each other!)
February 25th, 2009 at 12:07 am
[...] media relations, be sure to signup for HARO’s daily email alerts. Just remember to follow the five rules of HARO, or you might be kicked out of the pitch [...]
February 25th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
I would like to see more info. in some of the queries.
Please include the name of your publication, radio show, blog, etc. If it’s not there, I’m going to email you to find out before I put you in touch with any experts I know. I need to know it’s a legitimate query.
Some queries don’t sepcify what to include in the reply. Do you want a bio and contact info. to interview the expert? Do you want the expert to reply with comments to the initial query? For example, a query could say, “Please answer the questions below and provide your name, title, company and phone number.” This additional information would be helpful.
Oh, I’ve volunteered and donated to several pet rescues over the years:)
Thanks HARO.
March 2nd, 2009 at 11:46 am
I am aways happy to assist a reporter or writer on a topic that I have knowledge of. And I understand that there have to be some basic rules, but if you get too carried away with a strict structure, I will not want to participate. Why should I get blasted because I was providing some meat for the writter’s skelton? Let the writer judge the relevance of the information. For every reporter or author their can be a different set of rules. Thanks to Peter for making this happen.
March 3rd, 2009 at 3:46 pm
[...] What are the five rules of HARO? A) They are here – Do try and take them seriously. If you post queries on your blog, I’ll ask you to take them [...]
March 5th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
I feel as though I’m sitting in the editor’s desk reading tomorrow’s stories, which, of course, I am. A great community for those of us who have insights to share, stories to tell.
March 5th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
It would be nice if the reporters/freelancers, etc. could spare 30 seconds to thank people who send them leads or good sources for the information they request.
March 5th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
# 99 Don’t put a query in HARO, saying there are no geographic requirements, then slam respondents who live outside the US for responding
The Internet exists outside the US borders. Has for quite a while.
March 5th, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I’d like to add to Kim’s comments (40) that the more information you can give me as a PR person, the better I can respond to your query, the closer I can target what I have to offer to your needs or decide that your query isn’t right for my client. One very special request… please, if you write for a publication that requires purchase of advertising or the submission of a vendor list in order for a company to be included in a story, disclose that.
March 5th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
I think this is an excellent service for both sides of the equation. I would point out that reporters should also know that credible experts would like to know more about the interview, specifically, the pub/show, etc. “Anonymous” queries sound questionable. There needs to be some trust on both sides. I want my expert sources to feel informed and appreciated for their time, too. My job is to look out for their best interests and maintain credibility with the media for providing excellent sources.
March 5th, 2009 at 11:21 pm
[...] The Five Rules of HARO [...]
March 6th, 2009 at 8:55 am
I agree with Sonali Chapron’s comment about responsible “journalists”. I some how got on the mailing list for a few newsletters and blogs that I am in no way interested in.
So, rule #6 would be that reporters, or “source seekers” cannot harvest emails either.
March 6th, 2009 at 9:15 am
To Henry (#44) et al:
I do try to send a quick thank you when someone has sent me an email with information that I may or may not use for my story. I can’t always get around to doing this when I’m in the middle of writing the story. However, once the story is over and I’m cleaning out my inbox of emails I no longer need, that’s when I’ll usually try to send something out.
The only time I don’t send a “thanks but no thanks”, to be honest with you, is when someone sends me an email that says, roughly, “I’ve got a great expert. Call me” and that’s it. Or when HARO so totally rocks that I get 100+ responses (it’s happened), and time just doesn’t permit me to get back to everyone individually.
Hope this makes sense from your end.
Leah
March 6th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Leah,
You make perfect sense. I don’t expect a thank you — I am doing my job — but it’s always nice to get one and does help build working relationships. I do appreciate a “thanks but no thanks” as that tells me I need to move on and do some more research to find a good fit for my client. However, if you responded to anyone who says “I’ve got a great expert. Call me.” you’re just setting yourself up for similarly ambiguous pitches in the future and I realize you just don’t have time for that. It’s my job to pitch in a way that clearly let you know what my client has to offer. I’m confident that as long as your request has the detail I need to determine if it’s something I can help you out with then that the process will work for both of us.
Ruth
March 25th, 2009 at 11:20 pm
Missed you in Michigan -
About to keynote the Michigan Governor’s Conference on Travel and
Tourism. Since it’s Monday, I encourage you to read the Five Rules
of HARO, http://shankman.com/the-five-rules-of-haro/ and the HARO
FAQ – http://shankman.com/haro-master-faq/
hope you gave my best to Jenny G
May 11th, 2009 at 11:39 am
After having read a few weeks of HARO, I see a disparity in the quality of the queries. Some are unclear as to who they need, what they need, and when they need it. Maybe there could be more guidance in the posting form, to remind us writers what details to put in.
I do think if a writer isn’t going to send thanks-but-no-thanks in a timely manner, at least they should state upfront that if you haven’t heard from me by a specific day and time, move on.
May 14th, 2009 at 7:09 am
From the perspective of a source, that the writers rely upon to create stories:
It would be courteous of the writer to notify the source as to when the article, piece, or book will publish or air. In my own experience I receive a reply from a writer responding to my query raving about the detail I provided and how thankful she was to have the content for the story… I replied with a thank you and simply asked if she could send me an email when the book publishes. I heard nary a word back and two months later sent another request once again receiving no reply. I have no idea of where or when if my information was utilized. For the record, this was not related to my business and I wasn’t looking for free publicity. Rarely, and perhaps only a couple time since I’ve belonged to this valuable resource have the subject queries request my area of expertise. I have been published and featured on tuxedos and formalwear, but only once through HARO.
I also agree with Mike Van Horn in entry, I’m often intrigued as to when the article will run as many sound very interesting and I would love to read their stories.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:02 pm
HARO is both a blessing and a curse when you use it like I do to find sources for a story. It’s a blessing because it helps you to find terrific people to interview, but it’s also a curse because there are times when I get HUNDREDS of emails in response to a query. I am not exaggerating–literally hundreds of emails pouring into my inbox, often within minutes of a HARO dispatch going out.
When I’m faced with all of these people to respond to, I try to send an email to nearly everyone who emails me, either with a “thanks, I’ll be in touch if I’m interested” message or something such. I say “nearly” everyone because if I get a response that is so clearly not appropriate for my query, I just delete it. Or, if I’ve asked people to put a certain subject line with their email, so I can organize the responses with a filter–and someone doesn’t use the requested subject line and their email ends up somewhere else–I can’t spend the time chasing down those errant messages.
Then, when my story is written and I’m done with my research, I will try to send everyone an email letting them know that I either a) could not use their information or b) used their information, which appeared in the draft I submitted but that I have no control over whether or not the editor keeps it in. If I know when the story will be appearing, I try to include that in my follow up email.
As you can imagine when I’ve received hundreds of emails in response to a query, getting back to everyone can be quite time consuming. Again, if I’ve asked for a specific subject line to keep things organized and people ignore that, I can’t always send a reply. When I do, though, I’ll write a generic reply and just cut and paste it into my email, just so someone hears something from me.
Leah
May 27th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Hey didn’t So-Crates say that?
Yours in excellence,
Peter the elf.
June 8th, 2009 at 4:22 pm
I’d like to add a couple of guidelines for the reporters, also:
– Reporters are busy (we’ll all busy!) but acknowledgment of people offering to help you for free wouldn’t be a bad thing.
– Reporters should make it clear that if they use your material, you will receive attribution.
mvh
June 12th, 2009 at 7:02 am
What about the ads Peter writes at the beginning of each email? Can we blog about and copy them?!
Now I only read the ads – it’s a quick way to learn about new sites or services. I like that the brief summaries that are not full of hype but give good information. The companies themselves should blog about the writeups.
-Janet
June 19th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Glad to be back on the list!!!!
June 20th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
Mike VH thanks for backing me up on my opinion.
Even if reporters sent an auto-reply at first that acknowledges the receipt of our email I would that warm and fuzzy feeling. The writer may certainly include an explaination of their protocol, as Leah stated, but hopefully more concise and appreciative. If a person read the scenario I shared, there is no excuse for applauding my contribution…and then not having the courtesy to reply to a follow up, that I couldn’t made an easier then by replying to her very same email asking of the status
June 23rd, 2009 at 1:42 am
Thanks Peter for doing this.
As a former international journalist turned award winning independent filmmaker and now transforming into socialmedia changemaker i salute you for a simply amazing endeavour.
And yes, i read the enite page here 1-60 and thank you all for your input.
Very rewarding.
Erez, Vancouver, BC
June 28th, 2009 at 10:43 pm
I am new to HARO and look forward to the many opportunities this amazing website will open up to me. I am currently a Journalism emphasis photojournalism major and am very interested in diving into the media world
June 29th, 2009 at 8:44 am
I must be sooooo naive. It never even *occurred* to me to harvest reporters’ e-mail addresses. Either that, or I subconsciously know how cheesy/stupid/uncool it would be. Thanks for all the great work, Peter!!!
Laura
June 30th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
[...] 12. Read and abide by the HARO rules. [...]
July 1st, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Thank you Peter, this is awesome I look forward to seeing if I can contribute to any reporters out there
July 7th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
What I appreciate most is the simplicity of the HARO format, the direct communication made possible, the consistency of the daily emails, and the organic way this list and community grows.
Keep up the great work. And to all the reporters who use HARO to find sources, it is the highlight of my day x3 to scan for queries in the name of the other experts I know. I play a pay it forward game with myself as I see requests that fit with people I know could be a great source. Two ways to respond: 1. as yourself 2. alert another to an opportunity. Creating then a win-win-win…
July 8th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
[...] to the media (and to the PR people who need access to them), that neither side dares to break his rules. After all, no one wants to offend the guy who knows everyone and apparently sees everything [...]
July 10th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Thank you all for your ideas and clarifications. I have found it all most helpful! You Rock Peter!!!
July 13th, 2009 at 8:58 am
A dear friend sent your web site to our attention, thank GOD!
Where have you been ? :)
We are an untapped resource for reporters writing about the HNW households and domestics, we had no idea what to do with all this information.
Thanks to you, now we do.
Thank you Peter for your kind spirit and energy.
July 13th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
How about banning anyone who asks a question that could be answered with some simple research. For example, “I need to talk to someone who knows if it’s illegal to …” or “I want to talk to someone who works for xxxxxx about…”.
This is supposed to be a service to help “reporters” out, not support the lazy or inept.
July 13th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Thanks Peter for this incredible opportunity to be a part of the world in so many ways. My first response to a journalist request had me doing a phone interview the next day. Never have I experienced anything like this. All I can say is WOW !
July 14th, 2009 at 12:21 am
Great site, great concept, and just hope I can help a few people out with info or referrals to those who have info. I agree with you on karma…oh, and most definitely, be excellent to each other. So true, so true.
July 15th, 2009 at 10:58 pm
How about a tip for the reporters:
Have enough courtesy to actually inform the “expert” what the topic of discussion is. If you want to interview me live, atleast give me a topic so I am prepared rather than tell me to familiarize myself with past topics by looking through your website. You have 60 past interviews!!! This doesn’t help me mentally prepare for what you may need of me. Don’t expect me to wing it without a heads up of what we might be discussing because if I am caught off guard that can make me and my business look back. So, provide a synopsis for your interviewee PLEASE
July 16th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
#5. excellent!
July 20th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Thanks for the service, Peter!
#6 “…and party on, dudes!”
July 27th, 2009 at 1:52 am
I just joined HARO a few minutes ago and I’m excited to get started. As a general rule, will the reporter(s) ask for a bio, or if not should you just send them a brief one just to be safe? How about a photo (a head shot)? Sorry to be so naive, but I’ve not seen a query yet. It’s Sunday night. Thanks all…….
July 28th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
I think this is a lovely idea to help reporters find knowledgeable interviewees and to help other people get some press. I’m sorry I just found this but am glad I can now participate and look forward to it. Thank you, Peter.
Cris
July 28th, 2009 at 5:26 pm
Late to the game – posting here after Peter’s comments today about unwanted and unsolicited advice about how to do your job.
Speaking to comments #8 and #26 – I don’t mind, and often appreciate, a quick comment that’s relayed in the spirit of helpfulness and respect. E.g., “Did you know about factoid X, or link Y?”
It’s only the replies that are aggressive, disrespectful and unnecessarily critical that irk me. The most important thing to remember if you’re answering a query: The writer did NOT pull the idea/pitch/spin of the piece they’re working on out of their wazoo. This approach was shaped, if not dictated, by the editor/publisher.
July 28th, 2009 at 5:28 pm
Ditto to all the compliments to Peter Shankman above for this great and, amazingly enough, free service.
And a huge thanks for your delightful tone, Peter. You give “cheerfulness” a good name.
August 8th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
I cannot believe Dwayne Macadangdang (#75) was the first to recognize the Bill & Ted reference in the fifth rule. — Hugo Ottolenghi, Esquire
August 10th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
I was an early subscriber and now I am back. I am loooking forward to being a contributor again.
Oz
August 15th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Peter,
‘Great idea! Great service! Thank you.
August 17th, 2009 at 5:43 pm
I heard about this site from the Heart of Marketing newsletter. Sounds like a great idea and I hope people are looking for a meditation source.
Thank you Peter
August 18th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
I am obviously Rip Van Winkle-stein, asleep for a hundred years, having JUST found out about this AMAZING thing from a client and an associate.
Having just had the pleasure (not through this venue, alas) to help out a rather highly placed (okay CNN) producer with THE ultimate source for their story WHO WAS NOT MY CLIENT I wanted to encourage publicists and all humans to be generous and help make cool connections even if it isn’t good for business in an immediate way.
August 31st, 2009 at 5:22 am
[...] Then you might want to take a look at the list of HARO rules here. [...]
August 31st, 2009 at 6:30 am
Lately I am seeing a lot of rudeness and disrespect from reporters who post queries. You reply and get an excited response. Then they set you up for an interview but then blow you off. One example: twice in the past month I rescheduled a day for phone interviews, but they blew me off and never bothered to inform me that they were no longer interested in interviewing me. My time was wasted with nary a comment from them. I think common courtesy needs to be reinstated in HARO reporters.
August 31st, 2009 at 7:28 am
Rosalea:
I’m sorry to hear that this has happened to you, with reporters acting rude and blowing you off, but unfortunately that behavior goes both ways. I’ve had many times when a PR person has excitedly answered my HARO query, stressed that his/her expert is perfect for my piece, and then the phone interviews arrives, only to have the expert not be right at all or at the last minute the expert decides not to speak with me for this story. I realize that PR pros can’t always control their clients’ behavior, but it’s important for folks to answer queries that are appropriate not only for the reporter’s needs but their client’s needs, too–and that they’re not just answering them to fill out a status report to show that they’re earning their keep.
Leah
August 31st, 2009 at 8:11 am
Rosalea,
I had the same kind of experience on a couple occasions and got worked up about it, but one of the things we have accept as a possibility of working with reporters on a deadline and fielding so many inquiries is that they are human and capable of dropping the ball. While that doesn’t excuse having a lack of common courtesy, for you as a PR person consider the alternative of not having such a service that connects people in this way. It would require a lot more effort to get your clients publicity. I find most people are considerate so I wouldn’t let the few that are not considerate get to you. I do this for myself because I enjoy sharing my knowledge of the wedding industry in particular formalwear. It was Leah who helped consider the perspective of the writer/reporter and their struggle. Her expertise is on etiquette so I think she is objective and she is also one of the sincere subscribers that make this service an asset.
August 31st, 2009 at 9:16 am
Thanks for the helpful comments. However, I am beyond coddling and “forgiving” inconsideration. I myself can announce a change of plans with a one minute email. Even during my tightest deadline, I can manage that!
September 1st, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Thank you Peter for providing this great service!
September 12th, 2009 at 10:31 pm
Hi, Folks,
This is all new to me, and I’m excited to learn. I appreciate the help.
Terry
September 14th, 2009 at 5:48 am
Having Peter near is almost like having a friend call you three times a day. Esther Pearlman
September 16th, 2009 at 9:18 am
I have written a Christmas book target 4 to 12 year olds. Should I change my company name to reflect that?
September 17th, 2009 at 10:54 pm
HARO has been a wonderful resource both as a new source and to help clients get in front of the RIGHT media, at the RIGHT time.
September 22nd, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Just heard about haro at a conference. This sounds like fun!
September 23rd, 2009 at 5:01 pm
But not as a frontlet between thy eyes?
September 30th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Start a HARO Kiva group, and every time a journalist/source feels like it’s been a successful match, donate $5+ to help someone start their own business.
October 4th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Way to go Perer, you are indeed one of my herloes. Shalom, Esther
October 16th, 2009 at 10:10 am
Just wanted to add my undying thanks to Peter for providing this service. I’ve always found great sources for my magazine stories here.
Just a quick word about Anonymous queries sounding questionable. I routinely post anonymous queries because my editors don’t want me divulging what they’ve got planned for upcoming issues. However, I’ll describe the publication in general (national women’s magazine, parenting magazine, for instance), and I’ll tell anyone I’m considering interviewing exactly which publication or web site it’s for.
Thanks again, Peter for a great job!
Thanks again!
October 16th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
I am new to this service and am learning. Hope to learn many things. Newbie in Knoxville, TN.
October 16th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
KARMA… Like it or not it is real….
Thanks Peter for your energy and your good karma
October 16th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
As a new participant I’m enthusiastic about learning how I can contribute. So teach me? Also as an author of the metaphysical genre…I’m tuning into all you other participants…so if there’s a fly buzzing around you…don’t swat it…cause it’s me!
October 19th, 2009 at 8:28 am
Having used HARO as a reporter, I agree with what someone said above about following the reporter’s directions. I am not a control freak or exceptionally particular, but if I say use the words “Parenting article” in the subject head, I have a reason – that’s how I’ll search out your e-mail when it’s time to respond. If you don’t use the word I ask for in the subject head, I may not find your email.
Beyond that, give me a *reason* to want to call you. Credentials. And be nice / likable – sound like a person I’d want to speak with. Many of the experts that I don’t call, it’s because they don’t come across as someone I want to spend 30 – 60 minutes talking to. Of course, HARO is such a great resource sometimes I just can’t call everyone. (so don’t take it personally if I haven’t responded to you.) LOL
Of course, these are all tips for success–not rules.
Thank you, Peter, for this incredible resource!
October 20th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Shouldn’t the number 1 rule be “Always talk about HARO” (never talk about Fight Club)
October 26th, 2009 at 9:23 am
We love HARO and it’s a two-way street. We all want to be successfull in our respective positions. To the reporters: please be thorough in your requests. We’re busy too. If you don’t name your media outlet, or have only a one sentence description, I can’t tell if it’s going to be a good fit or if it’s worth pitching. The last thing we want to do is p-ss of a colleague.
November 10th, 2009 at 11:26 pm
[...] Shankman’s Help A Reporter Out email list connects reporters with sources and has five simple rules. One agency, “repeatedly pitched off topic, and ignored the five rules of HARO,” said [...]
November 11th, 2009 at 9:17 am
Another thing that would be very helpful for reporters to include in the query is the fact that they want to conduct the entire interview by email.
On the one hand, that helps me as a source be confident that I’ll be quoted accurately. On the other hand, it takes me a lot more time to answer 10 questions in writing than to spend 10-15 minutes talking with a reporter by phone, and I don’t always have the time for a written interview.
November 11th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Thank you Peter for this amazing service and the time you put into HARO. I just launched my business and having to boot-strap everything, including the marketing and pr, HARO is invaluable to me. One thing I have noticed though is the number of bloggers on the service. Some of them seem to be out there looking for “free” products. I just don’t know how to weed out the “legit” bloggers from the “freebies.” Have you found this to be the case?
November 24th, 2009 at 10:28 pm
These rules seems quite simple and straight forward. If anyone breaks them, s/he does not deserve to be a member of this community..
November 26th, 2009 at 4:42 am
I just wrote a book at real estate called: “Property Investment in Tough Times.” Love to talk to people about real estate. Feel free to visit my webapge.
Regards,
Author, investor and high school teacher,
Wilnes
November 28th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
Peter, great job. As a nationally accredited PR pro (APR) turned hippie restaurant owner, I remember the days of ProfNet, which was good for clients and media. This service looks like fun, thank you for your effort! Misty
November 29th, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Great website and can’t wait to see the queries. Since I’m in the pet Biz, I love that you ask for donations to shelters. Keep up the great work!
November 30th, 2009 at 12:18 am
This is a fantastic idea. I’m a blogger getting started and welcome the opportunities to get to know people. I forwarded this onto my brother-in-law who is in the news biz. So many uses for this. Good stuff, thanks for creating it Peter.
December 1st, 2009 at 7:50 pm
An Accidental retweet yesterday. Don’t boot me Peter. Was passing a Haro on to a busy Twit and he thought it was a RT. Hope the reporter forgives me. I have Mea Culpa Google Wave Invites if you want them.
December 27th, 2009 at 11:51 am
Thanks so much for this Peter, what a great idea. I just signed up and am looking forward to receiving the e-mails.
January 4th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
The five HARO rules are gold. Many of the additional ones shared by HARO people are excellent as well. As an author and a “source”, I have a slightly different take. A journalist asked for sources on How To Work a Room for a magazine that has carried my byline. As the author of How To Work a Room (Harper), it made perfect sense to share some tips and offer to provide more.
I never heard a word. A colleague sent me the published article. What a shock! Some of what I shared was in the article as unattributed narrative.
HARO is a two way street. It’s also important that journalists/writers respect the responses/information sent by valid experts who take the time to honor the HARO code to help them out.
January 6th, 2010 at 11:53 am
Hi! What an informative site. I am brand new to this, and I am looking forward to sharing my expertise in the cuisines of Morocco and North Africa with those who might find it useful.
Bon appétit!
Kitty Morse, author
A Biblical Feast and Cooking at the Kasbah: Recipes from my Moroccan Kitchen
January 14th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
I acquired some excellent new sources through HARO, enabling me to write well-rounded stories on the prepaid sector (prepaid debit, gift cards, and loyalty).
Thanks.
January 17th, 2010 at 12:13 am
[...] For The Five Rules of HARO, go to: http://shankman.com/the-five-rules-of-haro/ [...]
January 17th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
We can take rule # 5 (Be excellent to each other) and transfer it beyond HARO, being excellent to family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, strangers, everyone we come in contact with, even if they are behaving in a less than perfect manner.
January 23rd, 2010 at 7:08 pm
Gotta Show Some Love For #5…Bill and Ted Baby!
Going to have fun here;-)
February 7th, 2010 at 10:09 pm
In response to Anthony Commisso, who in comment 54 wondered about asking an author to be notified when the article runs, I’d just like to say that I’m one writer who’s always very grateful to receive that type of interest. It’s pretty unwieldly to keep a list of people to notify when a given article runs, though—particularly given that my clients don’t always notify *me* when a story posts.
I’ve gotten into the habit of asking that such people subscribe to my Twitter feed, where they’ll be notified when I have stories post. I’d love to hear feedback on that option. I consider it common courtesy, at the very minimum, to give any quoted sources the benefit of a personal e-mail containing a link when the story posts, and I apologize on behalf of the profession for those who neglect to do so. That’s just reeeeewwwwwd.
As far as authors who quote experts or use their anecdotes without giving full credit, I believe the term for them was noted earlier: They are asshats.
A thousand thanks for Peter Shankman and all you PR pros who make my life so much easier with your responses. If I don’t get back to you all to thank you for chiming in, my sincere apologies. Please know that it’s because the service works well enough to blissfully swamp me, but I am blessing you silently and you will assuredly be rewarded in PR heaven.
February 17th, 2010 at 1:11 am
I feel right at home with people who think independently. Thanks for the site!
March 23rd, 2010 at 11:56 am
I’m glad my husband found this site. Can’t wait to see if any reporters need my relationship expertise. (-:
March 29th, 2010 at 7:26 pm
[...] your story in response to a HARO query is as much art as science, and Peter has instituted five HARO rules that everyone must adhere to. One of them is the iron-clad rule for all sources looking to get free [...]
March 31st, 2010 at 11:40 am
I found this website while copyediting a business book that says everyone should join and gave some good reasons for joining.
As a freelance indexer, proofreader, and copyeditor for more than 20 years, I have expertise in many different subjects. Personally, movies and TV are my strongest areas, but by reading all different kinds of disciplines for years my subconcious is brilliant.
April 4th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
A colleague, who knows well my leadership and management expertise along with my community transformation interests, suggested I become a member of HARO. After making some inquiries, I too find that there could be mutual benefit to this opportunity. My areas of my senior executive expertise include K-20 education, health care, economic development, and public policy. If I can be of assistance, just let me know. Happy trails, Drew.
April 13th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
Can rule 6 be to never talk about fight club? I guess I just did. Don’t out me!
April 19th, 2010 at 11:51 am
In response to Leah, sometimes attempts at being funny just dont work and come across plain arrogant.
April 30th, 2010 at 11:48 am
[...] You should subscribe to HARO just for the entertainment that comes from reading about all of the different stories that people are looking to write in the near future and from the intros to each email. If you sign up, make sure to check out the founder Peter Shankman’s blog post about how to use HARO correctly. [...]
May 3rd, 2010 at 11:54 am
How about a rule that says No one is to misquote or name a source who wishes not to be named?
Just a thought.
Thanks!
And BTW, I really like the “Be excellent to each other rule.”
JC
May 7th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Rule 6: You must legally change the name of all your children to: Haro
May 8th, 2010 at 9:17 am
This is an excellent service and the rules fit for the purpose. I loved the rule on #75 “an party on…”
May 8th, 2010 at 3:46 pm
I worked on both sides too, both as a freelance writer and as an expert on telecommuting / writing for the Web. What I do to avoid no-shows is send my own reminder email the day before saying something like, “I’m writing to confirm our appointment tomorrow at 4pm via Skype. If I don’t receive a reply to this email by 10pm tonight, I will assume the appointment has been canceled.”
That way, if it’s still on, you’ll hear about it. If it’s not, you don’t waste time. We all screw up sometimes and this helps prevent that kind of mistake. It also gives me time to find another source!
May 10th, 2010 at 9:44 am
[...] signup, you’re directed to read The Five Rules of HARO. The first rule informs you that you will get three emails per day on regular business days. [...]
May 11th, 2010 at 8:21 am
It is so cool becoming part of a tribe of like-minded innovative spirits. I appreciate the work that you are doing and love your good Karma.
I will see you at the top and thinks for the many great ideas you have given to me by leading by example.
I found out about you reading the awesome book, E-Riches 2.0.
Dr. Elon Bomani
http://www.elonbomani.com
http://www.mlmmysteries.com
June 16th, 2010 at 2:03 pm
Glad to be part of such an incredible community! Thank you Peter!
June 17th, 2010 at 7:29 am
I love HARO – love love love HARO! But Peter reminded everyone about the rules this morning and that got me thinking.
I appreciated Peter’s reminder about the rules of HARO. But I really wish rule #4 went both ways.
4) You’re not allowed to harvest the reporter email addresses in the HARO emails for any reason. (With the new system implemented in January, you can’t anyway.)
People calling themselves reporters shouldn’t be able to harvest my email address and add it to their mailing list. I replied to a query but the response I received didn’t seem like a legitimate publicity lead. So I declined, but now I’m on the guys mailing list and when I asked to be removed I just got another form pitch about how great his new show is.
Just a thought. It seems to me like the rules should go both ways.
And let me say again I LOVE HARO!
Thanks.
June 17th, 2010 at 9:01 am
Can you add a rule for reporters… If I respond to your request and you ask for more information and I supply it, a simple thank you and a copy of the finished article is NOT too much to ask.
Or a simple thank you, but I won’t be using your info would suffice.
Love reading the requests and love it even more when I can help someone out, but a little courtesy goes a long way to making those of us who provide info a little more desirous of continuing to supply info.
June 17th, 2010 at 9:11 am
Peter – I don’t think it can be said too many times…THANK YOU for providing this service! Your rules-of-the-road are simple and straightforward and I can say, without hesitation, that it definitely pays to follow them to the letter. I’ve got a NY television “gig” scheduled for early August thanks to your thrice-daily emails. It wouldn’t have happened if:
1. I hadn’t signed up to receive your emails
2. I hadn’t read the post in its entirety and provided exactly what was requested.
June 17th, 2010 at 9:51 am
It’s not so horrible, but I knock my head against the wall when I see inquiries listed with topics that describe nothing…
“219) Story for a MAJOR WEBSITE (website)”
That tells people nothing! Ok, It’s not a HUGE waste of time to go look up the full details, but how many reporters miss sources because they (essentially) can’t write a headline?
-And so many reporters don’t notify their sources if they use something… or even got the info. Meh. I understand they’re busy. I use google alerts these days to let me know when I show up in an article.
-Most reporters are also kind enough to add a link to my website if it is remotely relevant to the story. Be kind, reporters! Help a source out! :)
June 17th, 2010 at 9:56 am
One request I’d like to add: When posting a query, if you’d like location-specific replies only, please indicate that in the headline. We’re all busy, so a quick scan of the topics should be all that’s needed to determine whether we’re a good fit as a source. It’s frustrating to read thru a description, then find out the reporter only wants to hear from prematurely bald unicycle riders who herd goats in the French Alps.
Other than that, it’s all good – thanks!
June 17th, 2010 at 9:59 am
Joseph, looks like we were writing the same request at the same time!
June 17th, 2010 at 12:42 pm
I would like to suggest a few rules for the reporters as well (maybe there are some already, but here are more.). In my last few calls, the reporter was rude, did not really know what they wanted, failed to say thanks even once, and refused to tell me where the article would be or even if the conversation would be used. Two have even failed to call when scheduled and later called randomly, and were rude when I could not talk with them at their random time.
Since we do not get paid for our tiime, some rules for reporters are needed:
1) Show some respect for the expert. Do not make appointments and fail to keep them . Thanks the expert for his/her time.
2) Follow-up after the call and let the expert know when the piece will run, or if it will not, or if the comments will or will not be used, and supply feedback on the interview. That is all the expert gets for doing this.
3) Be polite. Experts are giving valuable time for free. They have no reason to do this other than help,
4) Be prepared with your questions. If you are just fishing for a possible story, explain that up front.
Thanks for the service,
June 18th, 2010 at 2:22 am
Ok, this set of rules seems simple enough! But we all know there are those who are going to abuse the system…not me though. Excited to get started on this HARO adventure!
June 20th, 2010 at 9:51 pm
Brilliant rules – I was a little worried heading over here but these are nice and simple!
June 30th, 2010 at 8:41 am
#6 – Be good to your mother.
July 9th, 2010 at 4:38 am
When you receive a question, don’t think someone else’s answer will be better, it will just be different, everyone likes different. Don’t think negatively when you get a question, just answer it to the best of your ability. I’m pretty sure you will be successful if you apply this, (in a positive manner of course) I believe this came from Ghandi,
Thoughts become words
Words become beliefs
Beliefs become actions
Actions become character
Character is your destiny
It’s a work in progress for me, but it helps a lot when I’m thinking negatively and then out loud get down on myself.
July 12th, 2010 at 4:42 pm
Great service for small business who can’t really afford to have someone working on their PR. This gives them an opportunity to be heard even by large media outlets. Many people in small business really are experts especially when it comes to fiscal responsibility and pride of ownership. I recommend that each of my clients enroll.
July 13th, 2010 at 9:48 pm
Those are great rules! I look forward to being a part of HARO.
July 14th, 2010 at 3:26 pm
I love “Be excellent to each other”. What an Adventure!
August 3rd, 2010 at 6:25 pm
Just found out about HARO via an industry trade magazine…simple mention of a great service in an informative article.
Was very impressed with the five rules above especially number 6. Really not rocket science folks, eh? ;)
Glad to be on the list.. GM
August 3rd, 2010 at 6:28 pm
Self-edit, comment 152 I meant “number 5″ haha.. GM
August 8th, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Count me in to follow the list. I think HARO is an awesome resource and I am truly grateful for it.
August 18th, 2010 at 7:50 am
How about an over-arching golden rule: No flackery! (Never works, anyway…but it would degrade this excellent service quite rapidly.)
August 24th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
I am so pumped to be a part of HARO! I have linked to this website and have already started to spread the word.
August 26th, 2010 at 7:08 pm
I am a new author who welcomes the resource HARO provides. Thank you for allowing me to be a member. I will put this link on my website.