How to Skyrocket Your SEO with HARO: A Step-by-Step Guide
Want high-quality backlinks from authoritative publications like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and HuffPost?
Join HARO!
HARO (Help a Reporter Out) is a hidden gem for link building. By providing commentary to journalists through HARO, you can land valuable backlinks, increase domain authority, and climb higher in search engine rankings.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to use HARO for a serious SEO boost. You’ll get:
- A breakdown of why HARO is so powerful for SEO
- Step-by-step instructions for maximizing your success rate
- Templates and examples for crafting killer HARO responses
- Tips for promoting your HARO wins
Let’s dive in!
Why HARO Is So Valuable for SEO
Backlinks from authoritative, reputable sites are SEO gold. They signal to Google that your content is high-quality and trustworthy.
HARO makes it easy to connect and build relationships with writers at major publications. A single backlink from a site like Forbes can improve your domain authority overnight.
Other key benefits:
- Links help with rankings and visibility
- Exposure builds credibility and brand awareness
- Showcases your expertise in Google’s eyes
- Diversifies your backlink profile safely
In short: HARO generates the type of reputable backlinks that SEOs dream about.
Step 1: Set Up Your HARO Account
First, head to the HARO website and sign up for a free account.
Make sure your profile is robust and optimized with keywords relevant to your niche. This helps you get matched to the right queries.
Also, set up email alerts for keywords so you never miss an opportunity. Acting fast is key on HARO.
Step 2: Identify Relevant Queries
HARO sends hundreds of queries per day. Not all are worth your time.
Learn to scan for quality opportunities that align with your goals. Watch for:
- Links to high domain authority sites
- Established, reputable reporters
- Queries closely matching your expertise
Avoid spammy reporters or affiliates. Focus on big wins.
Step 3: Craft Your Response
This is where expert sources stand out. Follow these tips for killer HARO pitches:
- Personalize each pitch — Don’t copy-paste. Demonstrate you read the query.
- Establish credentials — Summarize why you’re the ideal expert to contribute.
- Provide value — Give insights and data the reporter can actually use.
- Be concise — Keep pitches tight. Include links to more info.
- Follow up — Offer to provide additional commentary or resources.
Here’s a template:
Hi [Name],
As a [credentials], I can provide an insider perspective on [query topic]. In my experience [useful insights].
[Optional quote or supporting data]
I’d be happy to provide additional commentary or assets like [infographics, images, etc] as needed. Let me know if you would like to schedule a quick phone call to discuss further. I look forward to helping with your story for [Publication]!
Best, [Your Name]
OR you can use this :
Dear [Journalist’s Name],
I came across your HARO request and would be delighted to offer my expertise on [Topic]. With [X years] of experience in [Your Expertise], I can provide valuable insights that align with your story.
Here’s a brief overview of what I can offer:
- [Point 1]
- [Point 2]
- [Point 3]
Please let me know if you’d like to proceed, and I’ll be happy to provide more in-depth information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
See the difference? Thoughtful, personalized responses get results.
Step 4: Promote Your Wins
Don’t let your hard-earned HARO links go to waste. Maximize their impact by:
- Promoting coverage on social media
- Displaying badges on your site like “As featured in [Publication]”
- Monitoring clicks and conversions from links
- Reaching out for more opportunities with reporters
Male your wins for all their worth!
Level Up Your SEO with HARO
Used strategically, HARO can skyrocket your search engine optimization. It opens doors to work with high-authority publications and build a powerful backlink profile.
The key is persistence and high-quality responses. Pitch consistently, establish rapport with journalists, and watch your domain authority climb.
Want more tips? Let me know in the comments! I may cover HARO more in future posts.
Happy link building!
