Know who we are!
1. Most of the time, it is you that reaches out to us. That being said, it’s important to have some understanding of who we are or what outlet we represent. A little research—like looking up the domain—can help you know who you’re contacting before you respond. If you are asking me to promote your content, the very least you can do is know who I represent. Asking that question without prior knowledge might suggest a lack of preparation and could lead to less engagement. Doing your homework is appreciated.
Reply!
2. Even if you are not interested in the person’s outlet, remember that you initiated contact. The least you can do is respond courteously and explain your position. Ignoring outreach because the outlet doesn’t fit your needs might come across as dismissive. Responding shows professionalism and respect.
For example, I once dealt with an outlet that ignored me entirely after I identified myself. They reached out to me, asked who I was, and then didn’t respond. This type of communication stands out and can be discouraging.
I waited a few days before replying that I was disappointed not to hear back, and then I mentioned that my editors at Big Network Site had decided to go in another direction. The moment I mentioned Big Network Site, they responded immediately, which highlighted how some decisions are influenced by the profile of an outlet.
Since then, I’ve been engaging with them in a way that tests their commitment. I asked questions I already knew the answers to, such as, “How many belts does your fighter have? Our editors want a champion, not just any fighter.” I know that fighter doesn’t currently hold a title, so this was a way to prompt more thoughtful communication.
Please own your decisions clearly and respectfully. If you reach out and then decide not to pursue the contact because of the outlet, it’s better to be upfront than to create confusion or seem dismissive.
Stay connected!
3. If you appreciate a blogger’s work, keep in touch. Building good working relationships is important. I may not write for Big Network Site today, but I could tomorrow. In fact, my own site might grow to be as big as Big Network Site one day. I’ve worked with sites of similar or greater reach, and I’ve appeared on radio and network TV. I’m working hard, and if you support me now, it’s more likely I’ll support you as I grow. Maintaining connections and sharing content is valuable for everyone involved.
We bloggers are a dedicated group of people. We are loyal and helpful. So please, treat your bloggers with respect and professionalism! Remember, you are only one viral post away from being well-known in a positive or negative way.
Seriously! You tell people not to be jerks but you typed like one? A true anti-jerk doesn’t use offensive language and pictures like what you did.
I was really irritated that day, and I also have a pretty nutty sense of humor. A lot of that was meant to come off as tongue in cheek. Think of it like the monologues show hosts do. Something like that. I considered editing it and making it softer, but then I’d be lying about how I truly felt. I really do my best to stay true to feelings. I don’t like that they do that, and clearly it comes across.