How to Get Your Start-up Featured on a Blog

It’s not  good enough to just have a start-up. You have to get people to talk about it and the best way to make that happen is getting featured on a blog or some sort of publication that will get the public’s attention.

As editor of Black Web 2.0 I see what works and what doesn’t when trying to get your start-up out there so here a few things to keep in mind:

Pitch to editors and writers

A good place to start is to actually pitch your start-up to editors and writers. Depending on the publication, they may have specifics on how to go about submitting a pitch. But generally what you want to do is send an email indicating who you are and what you do, what your company is and why so and so should write about it. Simple and straight to the point is the idea. Also a great way is to find out their Twitter handle and tweet them, try to include a link directing them to more information.

Build relationships with journalists and bloggers

The pitch becomes a lot easier when you already know these people personally. I’ve had the chance to meet several start-up founders at events, online, etc. that have made real connections opposed to a hi, bye, here is my card, feature us this week type of deal. Have conversations about what you do, but try to talk about other things too. You never know you may have something else in common with that person other than you have a start-up and the other person has a blog. Makes it easier down the line when seeking a feature.

Know your audience

Please at the very least know where your start-up belongs. If you have a tech start-up you shouldn’t be pitching to Marriedwithkids.com and if you are publicist with a PR firm that represents athletes please don’t pitch to Black Web 2.0 or any other technology/digital media blog. Pitching any and everywhere is not the move. Know your industry and the blog’s industry you are seeking to be featured in. You’re not helping anyone by pitching randomly.

Have social media accounts and a Web site

Have something that lets the writer know you actually exist. Social media accounts, Web sites, etc. Having something to link to is important otherwise it’s almost like writing about an idea you may have that could change in a matter of days. Know the stages of your business. If you are not ready to be talked about, wait until you are.

Spread the word 

So you’ve made connections, pitched – to the right people and got featured. Now, it’s time to tell everyone. Don’t get featured and just keep it moving. Blast it out to your friends, family and followers. Let people know that you and/or your start-up are worthy of a mention and trust me others will follow and feature you too.

Category: Featured, Startups | Tags: advertsing, blogs, features, founders, marketing, Startups