Foundations
No gatekeepers needed
PR has come a long way from the era of press days and cold calls. Today, it’s all about smart, targeted outreach and building real relationships that get results. One effective method is via X (formerly Twitter), where journalists often use the hashtag #journorequest to quickly find the stories and suggestions they need.
Direct message vs. comment?
You have two options for responding to an editor’s request: via direct message (DM) or by commenting on their tweet.
Some editors usually mention their preferred way to be reached, so make sure to take note.
Comment
Commenting on a journalist’s tweet is an easy way to respond to their requests, especially when they don’t provide an email. This approach not only gives you visibility among potential customers but also engages other editors who are monitoring the conversation.
Direct message (DM)
If the editor encourages DMs, this can be a more personal way to pitch your ideas. It allows for direct interaction, making it easier to establish a connection while still respecting their request for suggestions.
REMEMBER:
When pitching to press and journalist requests — whether on X or via email — there’s typically no need to follow up. These requests often represent the final call for feature suggestions, leaving a short window before publication.
Given the fast-paced nature of these requests, by the time you follow up, the feature is likely already completed, making your follow-up redundant.