Three times a day, HARO emails its subscribers a list with dozens of the latest free media opportunities from reporters in various fields who need sources for their stories. Without a doubt, HARO is one of the best PR resources out there, and it’s totally free. Just sign up, and you’ll start getting fresh media opportunities delivered to you three times daily Monday through Friday.

That’s why it’s so important that you do everything you can to make your pitch stand out from the rest. In the past, I’ve offered a number of tips for responding to HARO queries, but today, I want to focus on one point in particular: showing your expertise.

Here’s the thing. The reporters you’re responding to probably don’t know you. That’s why they’re using HARO, because they don’t have the sources they need. Your job is to show the reporter that you’re the perfect source for their story.

The fact is that reporters aren’t going to quote just any random person in their story. The quality of their article depends largely on having a credible source. It’s your responsibility to highlight your expertise and to demonstrate your credibility so the reporter knows that you’re a good source.

The other thing to remember is that reporters who use HARO are typically in a bit of a hurry. They’re trying to meet a tight deadline to get their stories out. That means they don’t have time to go back and forth with you to figure out whether or not you’re a credible source. It needs to be clear in your initial response that you have the qualifications and knowledge to be their source.

When you respond to HARO queries, remember to:

• Briefly summarize your experience and qualifications
• Include a link to your website
• Edit and proofread your response to ensure it’s well crafted and creates a strong first impression

What are some of your best tips for responding to HARO queries? Let us know by commenting below. 

This article is written by Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases (http://www.ereleases.com), the online leader in affordable press release distribution. Download your free copy of 7 Cheap PR Tactics for Success in Any Economy here: http://www.ereleases.com/offer/7cheaptactics.html