Being featured in Forbes is a game-changer for brand authority. It elevates your credibility, boosts visibility, and positions you as an industry leader. A Forbes feature not only builds trust with potential clients and partners but also opens doors to new opportunities, from speaking engagements to increased media attention.

However, earning a spot in a top publication doesn’t happen overnight. It requires strategic positioning, high-quality content, and a strong personal brand. Journalists and contributors look for experts who provide unique insights, fresh perspectives, and value-driven content. If you want to stand out, you must build a compelling brand presence, engage with media professionals, and offer content that aligns with Forbes’ editorial standards.

This guide outlines the steps to increase your chances of getting featured. From crafting a strong pitch to leveraging PR and media outreach, you’ll learn how to position yourself as the go-to expert in your industry. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to securing a feature in one of the most prestigious business publications in the world.

Build a Strong Personal Brand

• Define your expertise. Identify the topics where you have real knowledge.
• Craft a clear brand message. Make it easy for others to understand what you do.
• Stay consistent. Use the same messaging across your website, social media, and content.
• Share your story. Highlight unique experiences that set you apart.
• Engage with industry leaders. Build relationships with people who can amplify your presence.
• Showcase testimonials. Let others vouch for your expertise and credibility.
• Develop a unique voice. Make your insights and opinions stand out in your field.

Create High-Quality Content

• Write valuable articles. Offer insights that solve problems for your audience.
• Use data and real examples. Support your points with facts and case studies.
• Keep it concise. Avoid fluff and get straight to the point.
• Optimize for readability. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and clear headings.
• Maintain a professional tone. Avoid promotional language and focus on delivering value.
• Publish consistently. Regularly share blog posts, LinkedIn articles, and guest pieces.
• Use multiple formats. Incorporate videos, infographics, and podcasts to diversify content.

Get Featured on Other Platforms First

• Start with guest posts. Write for smaller industry blogs to build credibility.
• Appear on podcasts. Share your expertise in interviews with established hosts.
• Speak at industry events. Build recognition by presenting at conferences.
• Secure local media coverage. Get featured in regional newspapers and business magazines.
• Use social media strategically. Share insights and engage with journalists.
• Participate in panel discussions. Show expertise by contributing to industry roundtables.
• Write case studies. Demonstrate results with detailed success stories.

Build Relationships with Forbes Contributors

• Follow their work. Understand their writing style and the topics they cover.
• Engage with them. Comment on their articles and share their content.
• Offer value before pitching. Provide insights that align with their interests.
• Connect through LinkedIn or Twitter. Introduce yourself in a professional way.
• Be patient. Building trust takes time.
• Offer unique perspectives. Journalists look for fresh takes on trending topics.
• Share exclusive research. Provide data that can enhance their reporting.

Craft a Strong Forbes Pitch

• Research the right writer. Target contributors who cover your industry.
• Write a compelling subject line. Grab attention with a clear and specific message.
• Keep it brief. Get to the point in a few sentences.
• Highlight your expertise. Explain why you are qualified to provide insights.
• Provide a unique angle. Offer a fresh perspective that hasn’t been covered.
• Include supporting material. Share previous articles, case studies, or relevant data.
• End with a clear call to action. Ask if they are open to discussing further.
• Personalize every pitch. Avoid generic emails that will be ignored.
• Be clear on the value. Show how your expertise benefits their audience.

Leverage PR and Media Outreach

• Work with a PR agency. Professionals can help position your brand effectively.
• Use press releases wisely. Announce major milestones that align with Forbes content.
• Reach out to journalists directly. Offer expert opinions on trending topics.
• Monitor journalist requests. Use platforms like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) to respond to media inquiries.
• Position yourself as a thought leader. Share opinions on LinkedIn and contribute to industry discussions.
• Network at media events. Build connections with reporters and editors.
• Provide timely commentary. Offer quick expert insights when news breaks.

Maintain a Strong Online Presence

• Optimize your LinkedIn profile. Make sure it reflects your expertise and achievements.
• Keep your website updated. Showcase your latest content and media appearances.
• Publish regularly. Write blog posts, LinkedIn articles, and industry reports.
• Engage with your audience. Respond to comments and share valuable insights.
• Use video content. Share quick insights through short-form videos or webinars.
• Position yourself as a go-to expert. Be the first to comment on industry changes.
• Develop a personal newsletter. Share insights and build a loyal audience.

Be Ready When Opportunity Knocks

• Have a media kit prepared. Include your bio, high-quality images, and links to past features.
• Develop key talking points. Be prepared to discuss your expertise clearly and confidently.
• Stay informed. Keep up with industry trends so you can provide relevant insights.
• Be flexible. If a journalist needs a quick response, be ready to deliver.
• Follow up professionally. If a contributor shows interest, stay in touch and provide additional value.
• Prepare for interviews. Be ready to speak confidently about your expertise.
• Build relationships with editors. They can connect you with the right writers.

What Happens After You Get Featured?

• Share your feature everywhere. Post on social media, add it to your website, and include it in your email signature.
• Repurpose the content. Turn key points from the article into LinkedIn posts, tweets, or even a video.
• Strengthen credibility. Use the Forbes feature as a trust signal in sales conversations.
• Pitch to other top outlets. Use this feature to secure coverage in more publications.
• Keep the momentum going. Continue publishing content and engaging with the media.
• Turn the feature into business leverage. Use it to build partnerships and secure clients.
• Write follow-up articles. Continue expanding on the topic to stay relevant.

Scaling Beyond Forbes

• Use the credibility boost to get speaking engagements at top events.
• Leverage the exposure to increase demand for your products or services.
• Turn media success into a book deal or industry report.
• Get featured in multiple high-profile publications for sustained authority.
• Continue building relationships with journalists for long-term media presence.

Conclusion

Getting featured in Forbes takes preparation and persistence. Focus on building credibility, creating valuable content, and connecting with the right contributors. If you stay consistent, you will increase your chances of landing a spot in a top publication. A Forbes feature is not the end goal — it’s a stepping stone to greater opportunities. Keep refining your brand, expanding your reach, and establishing yourself as a trusted authority in your industry.