HARO Link-Building: Alternatives, Expert-Level Tips, and Steps

Every SEO pro dreams of earning backlinks from Forbes, The New York Times, or BBC. But let’s be honest—those links don’t grow on trees, and cold emails aren’t a solution. If you’ve ever thought, “How do I get my business mentioned in such publications without spending a fortune on PR?” you’ve landed on the right guide.

Among the countless strategies out there, HARO (Help a Reporter Out) stands out as a treasure for earning high-authority backlinks without breaking the bank or spending years cultivating relationships. It’s like matchmaking for journalists and experts—except instead of love, the result is backlinks that change the overall game.

However, just signing up for HARO isn’t enough. Sending half-baked pitches or generic responses? That’s a one-way ticket to the “ignore pile.” To truly succeed, you need a killer strategy, an eye for opportunities, and the ability to craft pitches that make journalists say, “This is the one!”

In this guide, I’m pulling back the curtain on how HARO link-building really works. You’ll learn expert-level tips that go beyond the basics, step-by-step strategies that cut through the noise, and real-world success stories that prove this method isn’t just theory—it’s the real deal.

Ready to stop spinning your wheels on mediocre strategies and start winning backlinks that matter? Let’s dive in—you don’t want to miss this.

What is HARO and How Does It Work?

Imagine you’re scrolling through your emails one day, sipping your coffee, and you come across this tool everyone in SEO seems to swear by—HARO. Now, if you’re not in the know, you might be thinking, “What on earth is HARO?” Let me break it down for you like we’re sitting at a café, talking shop.

HARO, short for Help a Reporter Out, is more than just a platform—it’s like a networking service for journalists and sources. Reporters are constantly on tight deadlines, scrambling for credible quotes and insights to make their stories shine. On the flip side, experts—like you, me, or your favorite SEO agency—are hungry for media exposure. HARO steps in as the middleman, bridging the gap between journalists needing information and experts eager to share it.

How it works

Journalists post queries on the HARO platform, describing the type of expertise they need. Maybe they’re writing about the top health trends for 2025 or looking for tips from cybersecurity pros. As an expert, you sift through these requests, craft a killer response that screams authority and hit send. If your pitch gets accepted, boom—you could land a feature in outlets like Forbes, Hubspot, or some niche publication that’s gold for your brand.

But here’s where it gets interesting—and a little nostalgic for us SEO folks. HARO didn’t always rule the link-building scene. Back in the day, there was this legendary platform called CISION, which dominated the PR world. Then came Connectively, which brought a fresh vibe to HARO-style pitching. It felt like the new kid on the block that everyone loved. But then—brace yourself—on December 9, 2024, Connectively announced it was shutting down.

Yeah, it hit us hard. For those of us who lived through the rise and fall of these platforms, HARO feels like that one constant friend who’s stuck around.

So now, when someone asks, “What is HARO, and how does it work?” you can tell them it’s more than just a tool. It’s a gateway to authority, visibility, and trust in the digital space. It’s also a fierce competition, where your words either win you the spotlight or get lost in the noise.

That’s HARO—a little nerve-wracking, a lot rewarding, and always worth the hustle.

Connectively.us Shut Down: Now What?

Let me tell you a story, one that feels a bit personal because it hits home for many of us in the industry. Connectively.us, a platform many relied on, has shut its doors. Just like that—gone. And to make matters even more complicated, they’re not pointing users toward an alternative. They’ve decided to focus on CISION One, which, let’s be honest, doesn’t quite fill the same shoes. It’s like being handed a replacement tool that doesn’t do half of what you need it to. Frustrating, right?

Now, first of all, let me say this: I’ve been around this field long enough to know how it works. When one platform steps away, it’s only a matter of time before something else takes its place. Mark my words—an alternative to Connectively will rise. It always does. But until then, let’s not act like the game is over. It’s not. There are already other incredible platforms out there with a solid success rate. For example, Featured.com and Qwoted have been doing some amazing things, and they’re worth exploring if you haven’t already.

And here’s another thing—new platforms are seizing the moment and stepping up to the plate. It’s almost exciting, in a way, to see the shifts and innovations happening. But that’s also why, as communicators, marketers, and writers, we’ve got to stay sharp.

This is why understanding HARO (Help A Reporter Out) isn’t just optional—it’s essential. It’s one of those tools that can connect you with high-authority opportunities and help you navigate this shifting landscape.

Platforms may come and go, but HARO remains a foundational link-building technique that can work across different scenarios.

So, yeah, we might feel a little disoriented right now, and that’s okay. But this is an opportunity too—a chance to adapt, explore new tools, and strengthen our approach. Don’t worry; the story’s far from over.

The Benefits of Using HARO for Link-Building

First, think about credibility. When a journalist from Forbes or New York Post includes a quote from you in their piece, it’s not just a backlink. It’s an endorsement. It’s the internet’s way of saying, “This person knows their stuff.”

Getting featured in publications like these isn’t just about SEO; it’s about pride. It’s about validation.

Then there’s the traffic. These links aren’t just sitting there gathering dust. They bring in readers who trust the platform and are actively searching for what you have to offer. Every time someone clicks through, they’re not just a number in Google Analytics. They’re a potential customer, a lead, or even a fan.

HARO builds relationships. The more you respond to journalists, the more you become their go-to expert. They’ll start reaching out directly, bypassing the noise, and suddenly, you’re not just part of the conversation—you’re leading it.

And yeah, it takes effort. You’ll need to craft pitches that stand out, respect deadlines, and maybe get a little creative. But let me tell you, the payoff? Totally worth it.

So, if you haven’t already, dive into HARO. It’s not just about the links; it’s about the reputation, the authority, and the stories you’ll tell later about how it all started. Trust me—you’ll thank yourself for taking the leap.

How to Use HARO for Backlinks & PR

Alright, let’s dive into it. Stick with me here, and I’ll walk you through every step to make HARO work for you—whether you’re a newbie or looking to improve your strategy. No filler, just actionable steps you can start today.

Step 1. Pick the Right Platforms

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room. HARO was probably the first platform you’ll hear about if you’re Googling how to get backlinks or media features. The catch? HARO (Connectively) worked well for industries like health, business, lifestyle, and travel. Those were broad topics that always had a steady demand from journalists.

But, if you were relying on Connectively… it’s time to move on. As you probably know by now, Connectively is no longer operational. I get it—it’s frustrating when a platform you’ve been comfortable with suddenly vanishes. But here’s the thing: there’s still plenty of opportunity out there. Let’s break it down.

Qwoted

Now, Qwoted is like HARO’s polished sibling. It’s selective, and that’s both a blessing and a curse. If you’re in finance, tech, or professional services, this one’s worth exploring.

Pros: You get fewer, more targeted queries. Plus, you can build relationships directly with reporters—it’s not just about one-time opportunities.

Cons: Smaller pool of journalists compared to Connectively, and it leans heavily towards corporate and professional niches. If you’re in a creative industry, it might not be the best fit.

Costs: Free for experts with limited access, but premium features start at $99/month.

Best for: Financial advisors, cybersecurity experts, SaaS founders, and other professionals in regulated or highly technical fields.

Featured

If you’re in tech, SaaS, or eCommerce—listen up. Featured.com is golden for industries where expertise needs to shine. Think startup founders sharing their journey, tech specialists breaking down complex ideas, or even eCommerce brands pitching innovative trends. The platform connects you with journalists actively looking for thought leaders.

You can sign up for a free plan and get an opportunity to send 3 pitches/month. However, for just $39.80, the pro plan offers unlimited answers.

Also, let’s talk about competition. Featured.com isn’t some exclusive club. There are plenty of other experts vying for attention. If your niche isn’t in high demand, you could end up feeling like a needle in a haystack.

Is It Worth It?

So, where does that leave us? If you’re in a field where media exposure can lead to massive opportunities—like consultants, authors, or even certain SaaS founders—Featured.com could be a game-changer. But if you’re just starting out and watching every dollar, you might want to weigh the cost against the potential ROI carefully.

In the end, Featured.com feels like a gamble—but one with exciting possibilities. And honestly, if you play your cards right, it might just be the thing that gets you noticed.

SourceBottle

Let’s shift gears. If you’re in Australia or New Zealand, SourceBottle is the platform you want to keep in your toolkit. This is similar to HARO, but with a regional focus.

Pros: Ideal for businesses looking to build authority in those markets. You can also pitch across a broader range of topics, from beauty to parenting.

Cons: Limited reach if your audience is outside Australia or New Zealand. Also, the volume of opportunities is lower than HARO or Qwoted.

Costs: It’s mostly free, though there are optional paid features for promoting your pitch.

Best for: Brands targeting a local audience in Oceania, such as small businesses, lifestyle bloggers, and boutique agencies.

JustReachOut

JustReachOut is for those who want more control—it’s a PR platform that helps you pitch directly to journalists, without waiting for queries.

Pros: You’re not dependent on what journalists are looking for. Instead, you approach them with your unique angle. It’s perfect if you’re in an underserved industry and want to create your own opportunities.

Cons: It’s not plug-and-play. You’ll need to put in the time to research journalists and craft pitches. If you’re not confident in your pitching skills, it can feel overwhelming.

Costs: Pricing starts at $147/month, so it’s an investment.

Best for: Industries that don’t see frequent HARO queries, such as niche B2B tech, local services, or unconventional startups.

Step 2. Optimize Your Online Presence

On HARO platforms, journalists are focused on credibility. They want to know you’re the real deal, someone they can trust to add value to their story. And in 99% of cases, they’ll head straight to your LinkedIn profile to verify your expertise.

Now, let me tell you a quick story. My LinkedIn profile wasn’t always what it is today. At first, it was just a bland, text-heavy page that barely scratched the surface of my skills. But after a journalist once told me, “Your LinkedIn gave me pause,” I knew I had to step up my game.

So here’s what worked for me—and what can work for you:

Here is what my LinkedIn profile looks like:

But, if you’re trying to build trust online, especially in specific industries like healthcare or law, it’s not just about looking professional. It’s about proving your credibility in a way that feels real. If you’re a doctor, for example, journalists aren’t going to take you at face value. They’ll want more.

Picture this: a journalist stumbles across your website while researching a story. They’re intrigued, but they’re also skeptical. The first thing they’ll look for is a bio—something that says, “Hey, I know my stuff.” They’ll want to know your credentials. Where did you study? What are your qualifications? Do you have any awards or achievements that stand out?

And here’s where it gets even more personal. Sometimes, they’ll want to go beyond the digital world. They might ask for proof of your diplomas or degrees. Yep, actual documents. Or they’ll suggest a live video call—not to interrogate you, but to see the person behind the profile. They want to hear your story, your passion, and your expertise straight from you.

It might feel like a lot, but think about it this way: every step you take to optimize your online presence is building a bridge of trust. It’s saying, “I’m the real deal, and I’m here to help.” That kind of authenticity? It’s priceless.

So, go the extra mile. Polish up that bio. Have those credentials ready. Make sure your online presence reflects exactly who you are—and why you’re the expert they’ve been looking for.

Regularly Check for New Queries via Email Alerts

So, you’re sipping your morning coffee, scrolling through your inbox, and there it is—a perfect HARO query that fits your niche like a glove. But what if you missed it? The opportunity to land a high-authority backlink or be featured in a top-tier publication is gone. This is why staying on top of email alerts isn’t just a routine—it’s a game-changer.

HARO makes it simple. You can customize when you receive those golden nuggets of opportunity—morning, midday, evening—whatever works best for you. It’s about working smarter, not harder. Set those email notifications at times you know you’ll be ready to dive in. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about giving yourself the best shot at being the first to respond.

But—and this is key—it’s not enough to just skim through. You’ve got to analyze each query carefully.

Don’t rush. Take a moment to understand exactly what the journalist is asking for. What’s their angle? What’s their deadline? Are they looking for a specific tone or expertise? Missing the details could mean your pitch lands in the trash instead of on their desk.

Prepare the Pitches

You can have the best product, the most insightful expertise, or even the perfect credentials, but if your pitch isn’t concise and to the point, it’s going straight to the trash. Reporters don’t have time to sift through paragraphs. They’re busy, overwhelmed, and honestly? They’re probably skimming through dozens—maybe hundreds—of pitches daily.

So, how do you make yours stand out? It starts with knowing your target. You’re not just throwing darts in the dark here. Select the queries that align perfectly with your expertise or your client’s niche. There’s no point in responding to something vague or outside your wheelhouse—you’ll just waste time and dilute your credibility.

Here is a query sample:

Once you’ve found the right query, here’s where the magic happens: keep it simple, clear, and to the point. No “Dear Sir/Madam” nonsense. Address the journalist by name if possible—it makes it personal and shows effort. Start with a quick introduction. Who are you? Why are you credible? Then dive straight into the value you’re offering.

Best practices? Let’s break them down.

Oh, also: timing is everything. HARO moves fast. You can’t let those queries sit in your inbox for hours. Be ready to craft and send that pitch within minutes if possible—early birds do get the worm here.

Here is a great example of a HARO link earned for one of our clients in the health industry:

Monitor for Published Pieces

On platforms like Featured.com, sometimes you get a glimpse of whether your pitch was accepted. It’s like seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, right? But acceptance doesn’t always mean the piece will go live, let alone include your input. From my experience, I’ve learned not to celebrate too early. Publications have their timelines and priorities, and sometimes, things just… fall through the cracks. Frustrating, I know.

And then there are those moments—oh, these moments—when a journalist uses your pitch, publishes it, and never bothers to tell you. It’s like throwing a message in a bottle and finding out months later that it made it to shore. You’re left wondering, “Did it even happen?”

In cases like this, I’ve found solace in tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush. These tools are like your eyes and ears, helping you spot any new links popping up in your backlink profile. Sometimes, you discover a new HARO backlink you didn’t even know you’d earned—it’s a little thrill, almost like finding money in an old jacket pocket.

Of course, if you’re really invested in a particular pitch, you can always follow up with the journalist. Keep it polite and professional—something like, “Hey, just checking in to see if my contribution was helpful or if the piece went live.” It’s not just about curiosity; it’s about closing the loop.

Here is what a HARO link looks like

So yeah, monitoring HARO isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about staying on top of things, being resourceful, and sometimes, having the patience of a saint. Trust me, it’s worth it.

The Cost of HARO-Link-Building

So, unlike guest posting or niche edits—where you often pay publishers to feature your content or insert your links—HARO is a whole different beast. Here, you’re not buying links. Nope. You’re earning them. And let me tell you, there’s something deeply satisfying about that. It’s like catching fish with your own hands instead of buying them from the market. Messy? Sure. But oh, so rewarding.

Now, here’s the thing: HARO thrives on expertise and persistence. If you’re an expert who loves to test new strategies—and maybe you’re just a little bit stubborn—you can absolutely dive in yourself. All you need is a subscription to HARO or similar platforms. You get the queries, you craft the pitches, and if you’re good (like, really good), journalists will pick you. The cost? Your time and dedication. That’s it. Nothing more.

However, let’s confess that not everyone has the kind of time or patience to send pitch after pitch, tweaking every little word to get it just right. This is where freelancers or HARO link-building agencies come into play. They take on the heavy lifting, the back-and-forths, and the endless writing so you don’t have to.

Now here’s the part you’re probably wondering about: the cost. On average, securing a single HARO link can set you back between $300 and $500. That’s not pocket change, but hear me out—these aren’t just any links. Their value depends on factors like the website’s Domain Rating (DR), organic traffic, reputation, and even the industry. A link from a niche site with modest traffic? Lower cost. But a link from a top-tier publication in a competitive industry? You’re paying a premium, and honestly, it’s worth every penny.

So, whether you choose to roll up your sleeves and go it alone or hire someone to do the legwork, HARO link-building isn’t just about the dollars—it’s about the value, the strategy, and the thrill of the chase. And trust me, there’s nothing quite like seeing your expertise published on a reputable site, knowing you earned that spot fair and square.

Top Alternatives to HARO Link-Building

Indeed, HARO is great—it’s straightforward, efficient, and can land you some stellar backlinks. But it’s not the only way to earn PR links. In fact, sometimes, you need to think beyond the inbox pitches and journalist queries. Enter: Digital PR.

Now, when I say “Digital PR,” I don’t mean slapping together a press release and hoping it lands somewhere. No, this is where strategy meets creativity. Digital PR is about creating stories, campaigns, or insights that are so captivating that journalists want to cover them. For example, unique data insights or even something as simple as a heartfelt brand story that tugs at the right strings.

But, pulling off Digital PR successfully isn’t just about luck. It’s about knowing the right angles, understanding what catches a journalist’s eye, and being ready to pivot when something doesn’t quite land. I’ve got a guide that dives into this deeper—strategies to not just “earn” PR links but own them. Go check it out.

What About Industries with Little-to-No Use for These Platforms?

If you’re in industries like construction, plumbing, or heavily localized trades, HARO-style platforms might not deliver the ROI you’re hoping for. The media isn’t often looking for quotes from these sectors—it’s just the reality of PR. Instead, focus on local SEO, community outreach, and building relationships with regional news outlets.

Each platform lets you filter opportunities by industry. Yep, you can actually choose the niches you know like the back of your hand. Whatever your expertise, you can opt to receive notifications only when those topics come up.

So, instead of wading through irrelevant pitches, you’re only alerted when something truly aligned with your skills pops up. It’s like they’re speaking directly to you: “Hey, this is your moment!”

What’s even better is that you can peek into each platform’s most active industries. For example:

Featured is bursting with opportunities in business, SaaS, and tech.
Qwoted leans heavily into PR-friendly niches like lifestyle, wellness, and even SaaS.

And others? They’ve carved their little corners in the media.
So, think of it as building your newsroom—one where every headline feels like it’s written for you to respond.

How Often Should I Respond to Haro Queries?

HARO queries are fleeting. They’re posted, and boom, gone within a day. If you’re late, someone else has already slid into that spot. So, set a routine. Maybe it’s your morning coffee ritual—check the latest queries, skim through the ones relevant to your niche, and craft pitches that shine.

But wait, don’t overdo it. Quality over quantity, always. You’ll be tempted to respond to every semi-relevant query, but here’s a pro tip: don’t. It’s better to send three killer pitches in a week than 20 mediocre ones that fall flat.

And let me be real with you—it’s going to take patience. You won’t land every pitch, and that’s okay.
So, how often? Often enough to stay visible, but not so often that you burn out.

What Makes a Haro Pitch Successful?

Honestly, it’s about nailing the fundamentals—but let me break it down for you, like we’re sitting at a coffee shop, brainstorming together.

First up—speed. It’s everything. The moment that HARO email hits your inbox, the clock is ticking. Journalists are swamped with pitches, and they’re not waiting around for your masterpiece. If you’re not one of the first, chances are your pitch won’t even be seen. But—and this is key—don’t let speed ruin your quality. Quick doesn’t mean careless. It’s like a sprint where you still need to stick to the landing.

Then there’s relevance. It’s not about sending the same pitch to every query. No one wants generic answers. Take a beat, read the query, and really think, “Can I give them exactly what they need?” If you can, customize your pitch so it feels like it was meant for them—and only them.

And let’s talk credibility. Journalists want sources they can trust. Your credentials, your experience—highlight them. Don’t go overboard, but make it clear why you’re the perfect fit for their story.

Finally—clarity. A pitch isn’t the place for poetic prose or long-winded explanations. Get to the point, and make it easy for the journalist to say, “Yes, this works.”

So, what makes a HARO pitch successful? Speed, relevance, credibility, clarity—and maybe a little luck. Because when it all comes together, it feels like hitting that perfect note.

How Long Should a Haro Pitch Be?

How long should a HARO pitch be? Honestly? As short as possible while still packing a punch. A solid HARO pitch should be around 150-250 words, tops. Enough to show you know your stuff, offer real value, and make the journalist go, “Oh, this person gets it.”

Start with a quick intro—who you are and why you’re qualified. Then, dive straight into answering the query.

Wrap it up with a strong closer: your contact info and an offer for follow-up. Something like, “If you need further details or quotes, I’d be happy to provide them!” Short, sweet, and to the point.

So yeah, when in doubt, keep it tight, impactful, and respectful of their time. They’ll appreciate it—and you just might land that golden feature.

Are HARO Backlinks Always Dofollow?

Well, here’s the truth—it’s not black and white. From my experience, HARO links can swing both ways. Over 70% of the time, you’ll land a sweet, dofollow backlink and only 30% of those links are nofollow. And hey, that’s not necessarily a bad thing—nofollow links can still help build your brand’s authority in ways that don’t scream “SEO tactic.”

But there’s another layer to this story. Sometimes, you don’t get a link at all. Yep, it happens. A journalist might mention your brand or quote your insights, but they won’t drop a hyperlink. Frustrating? Sure. But those mentions still have value—they place your name in front of the right audience, in the right publication.

So, if you’re diving into HARO for backlinks, just know—it’s a mixed bag, but one worth opening. Every link, every mention, every feature builds a piece of the bigger picture. And that, my friend, is how you win the long game.

Do HARO Links Target Only the Homepage?

Well… yes, in about 95% of cases. That’s the sweet spot. Most HARO links naturally point to the homepage with branded anchor text—it’s the face of your brand, after all. But here’s the twist: occasionally, a publisher might decide to mix things up. They could grab the URL to an expert’s profile page or even a LinkedIn account instead.

It’s not super common, but it happens. Unfortunately, from the SEO standpoint, it’s not that great.

So yeah, mostly homepages, but there’s room for surprises.

What’s the Best Time to Send a Haro Pitch?

Since most HARO publishers are based in the United States, targeting U.S. hours is your safest bet. Morning hours—think 8 to 10 a.m. EST—are golden.

Why? Because editors often check their emails first thing in the morning, organizing their responses and setting the tone for their day. A pitch sent during this window has a better chance of standing out before their inbox floods with dozens of other submissions.

Now, if I’m honest—and I’m speaking from experience here—I’ve found that even late-night pitches (around 9 or 10 p.m. EST) can work like a charm. It’s not conventional advice, sure, but sometimes editors are catching up on emails after hours, and your pitch could be the last thing they see before heading to bed. A bit risky, but hey, it’s worked for me a few times.

The key is to avoid the midday rush. By then, most inboxes are overflowing, and your carefully crafted pitch could end up buried. So, think strategically. Align with their workflow, and if you’re outside the U.S., take advantage of scheduling tools to hit those prime hours.

How Should I Structure My Haro Pitch?

Start with the subject line. This is your first impression—your handshake, your eye contact. Keep it short, direct, and relevant to the query. No fluff, no clickbait. Think something like, “Expert Insight on X for [Query Topic]” or “Unique Perspective on Y That Aligns with Your Story.” You want them to open the email, so don’t overthink it—just be clear and intriguing.

Now, onto the opening line. This is where you introduce yourself, but please—don’t make it sound robotic. Nobody likes, “Hi, my name is John, and I am the CEO of XYZ Company.” Instead, try something more human, like, “Hi [Journalist’s Name], I saw your request about [query topic], and as someone who’s been immersed in this for [X years], I thought I’d share a perspective that might add depth to your piece.” See how that feels warmer? It’s about connecting.

Next, the pitch body. This is the meat, the juicy middle. Get to the point quickly—don’t make them dig for it. Offer your insight or expertise in a way that’s easy to skim. Bullet points work wonders here if you’ve got multiple points. Maybe something like:

Quick state or fact to set the stage.

Your actionable tip, insight, or a unique angle.

A brief example or story to back it up (optional but powerful).

And please, for the love of all things good, avoid jargon. Make your pitch conversational and easy to digest. Think of it as if you’re explaining it to a friend who doesn’t live in your world.

Finally, close it out clean. A polite, professional sign-off works great. Something like, “If this aligns with your story, I’d be happy to provide more details or answer any questions. Thanks for considering my input!” Short, sweet, and no pressure.HARO is about adding value. If you come across as helpful, approachable, and, most importantly, relevant to what they need, you’re already halfway there.

Now go crush that pitch! And hey, if you need a second pair of eyes on it, I’m here.

Can I Outsource Haro Link-Building?

Yes, you absolutely can outsource HARO link-building—and honestly, it might be one of the smartest moves you make for your SEO strategy. It’s time-consuming, detail-heavy, and requires pitch-perfect communication.

That’s where we come in. At Digital World Institute (DWI), we handle it all—scouring relevant queries, crafting attractive pitches, and securing high-authority backlinks that make all the difference.

Save your time. Let us get the links. Simple as that.