Why am I not hearing back from editors?

Having spent time crafting a pitch to an editor, we understand it can be disheartening if you don’t hear back from them. Below, we've outlined 3 reasons why you might not be hearing back from editors and how to increase your chances of receiving a reply.

Editors can receive 1,000s of emails a day

Given how many emails they receive, journalists are unable to read each and every one, let alone reply. Often, they will scan the subject line and only open the email if what they read here is engaging. They can also go to junk if they’re too large. To increase your chances of hearing back from editors, spend time making your subject line as engaging and relevant to their publication readers as possible. Arguably, the subject line is the most important part of your pitch email.

Your story isn’t relevant at this time

The timing of your pitch is important. If you pitch a story to a journalist at the wrong time of year or month, it’s likely you won’t hear back. This is why we recommend reviewing a forward features calendar to see when titles are publishing particular issues, such as their bridal or festive gift guide issues. Then, pitch your stories 3-4 months in advance of these relevant issues to maximise your chances of securing coverage via a relevant story idea.

Your imagery isn’t suitable

Journalists have told us that some brands have been cut from stories because their imagery isn’t right. Therefore, it’s really important to invest in strong high-resolution packshot and lifestyle photography to ensure this doesn’t happen to your brand. Make sure to label your imagery and share it in a Google Drive folder, not a temporary WeTransfer link as journalists will not thank you if your link expires just when they need it.

If you would like to own your PR in-house for the long term, email hello@fallowfieldmason.com to find out how we can help you.