HOW TO GET FEATURED IN FORBES

Forbes is one of the most respected business magazines out there. Getting featured in Forbes can do wonders for growing your personal brand or promoting your company. But with so much competition, actually landing a Forbes feature is easier said than done. This post will break down actionable tips to increase your chances of getting that coveted spot in Forbes.

Know Your Angle

The second most important thing is knowing your unique angle. What can you offer readers that they won't find anywhere else? Reflect on your experiences, expertise, research, data, or products/services that would provide real value to the Forbes audience. Find that hook that sets you apart from others in your field.

Utilize PR Services

Experienced PR professionals may have existing relationships with Forbes journalists and can craft pitches tailored to their interests. Services aren't cheap but may drastically boost your odds.

Offer Exclusive Content

Forbes writers are always on the lookout for fresh content that their audience hasn't seen before. Offer to provide data, research, insights, or news that you can scoop to them before it's publicly released. Having exclusive content gives you a leg up over other pitchers.

Comment on Existing Articles

Start engaging with Forbes writers by commenting on their articles. Share your insightful thoughts and expertise. But keep it professional - no promotional spam! Building relationships and credibility with writers pays off when you later pitch your own story.

Leverage Your Network

Who do you know that may have Forbes connections? Ask colleagues, friends, PR professionals, or LinkedIn contacts if they can make introductions to relevant writers. Having someone vouch for you goes a long way compared to a cold pitch.

Submit Guest Posts

Many Forbes contributors accept unpaid guest post submissions. Though not a guarantee, pitching well-written articles with unique angles is a potential path to getting exposure on Forbes. Make sure to carefully follow the submission guidelines.

Join the Councils

Forbes has various councils, like the Forbes Business Council, that require an application but provide more visibility once you're accepted. Members often get featured or published on the site.

Pitch Relevant Writers

Make a list of Forbes contributors who cover topics related to your industry. Check out the kind of stories and experts they've featured before to find the best matches. Then reach out to pitch yourself as a potential interview subject or contributor that would appeal to their readership. Personalized, well-targeted pitches have a higher chance of getting a reply.

Attend Live Events

Forbes hosts various conferences and events throughout the year, like the Forbes Under 30 Summit. Try getting a speaking spot or networking with writers there. Facetime can help build relationships.

Have Patience and Persistence

Securing a feature on Forbes rarely happens overnight. Pitch frequently but politely, nurture relationships over time, continuously create great content, and don't get discouraged by rejections. Stay persistent and keep trying.

Getting attention from the hugely popular Forbes platform isn't easy, but creatively highlighting your expertise, establishing connections, and providing exclusive value greatly increase your chances. With the right angle and persistence, you can get that coveted contributor spot. Believe in yourself and your message - you've got this!

Now let's dive into the nitty gritty details...

Craft the Perfect Pitch Email

Your introductory email has to grab attention quickly. Follow this proven formula:

• Personalized greeting: Make sure you have the writer's correct name.

• One-sentence hook: Summarize your pitch and why it's perfect for them.

• Elaborate on the angle: Explain in 2-3 sentences why your story/idea/contribution is a great fit for their audience.

• Establish credentials: Briefly explain who you are and what makes you an expert on this topic.

• Call to action: Politely ask for an interview, an opportunity to contribute, or feedback on the idea.

• Sign off with contact info: Put your name, website, and email so they can easily follow up.

That's just the basics - keep it short and compelling. Follow up if needed but don't harass writers who don't respond.

Optimize Your Profile and Branding

Forbes writers will likely check out your website and social media to vet you. Make sure your online presence aligns with the image and message you want to convey.

Ask yourself:

• Does my website/portfolio showcase my expertise?

• Are my social platforms updated, professional, and relevant?

• What impression would a journalist get from looking at my profiles?

• Is my headshot high quality and approachable?

Tighten up your online presence before making any pitches. It can make or break whether a writer takes you seriously.

Time Your Pitch Strategically

When and how you pitch matters just as much as what you're pitching. Here are some tips:

• Avoid busy periods like holidays or print deadlines.

• Pitch early in the week - Mondays and Tuesdays tend to get better response rates.

• Know their editorial calendar - pitch stories that are evergreen or tie into upcoming themes.

• Follow up on past stories with fresh angles - writers appreciate when you know their work.

• Have flexibility on timing - writers often need to fill holes quickly.

Getting your pitch in the right hands at the right time increases its chance of success exponentially.

Nail the Interview

If a writer does agree to an interview, congrats! Now it's time to prepare:

• Research the writer and their past interviews. Notice what angles and topics get covered.

• Know your key talking points but don't script out answers word-for-word. Sound natural.

• Have a couple of compelling anecdotes or soundbites ready to make your points memorable.

• Bring visuals if possible - photos, videos, infographics.

• Record the interview yourself as a backup.

• Offer to fact-check any quotes they plan on using.

• Suggest supplementary content like guest posts or data exclusives.

With great preparation, you can really shine during the actual interview process.

Conclusion

Getting featured in a highly respected publication like Forbes can do wonders for expanding your reach and establishing credibility. But it doesn't happen by accident. Strategically highlighting your expertise, carefully crafting pitches, building relationships over time, and persisting through rejections are all necessary to increase your likelihood of success. Use these tips to better position yourself for that coveted contribution. Play the long game, stick with it, and your hard work can pay off hugely.