How to Get Press Coverage for Your Original Research
- Sam Hajighasem
- Mar 26
- 4 min read
Gaining press coverage for your original research can significantly boost your visibility, establish credibility, and drive backlinks that improve your website's SEO. However, simply publishing research isn’t enough—it must be strategically promoted using a blend of media outreach, influencer partnerships, and smart content distribution.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective research promotion strategies to ensure your findings receive the attention they deserve.
Why Press Coverage Matters for Original Research
Press mentions can elevate your research’s authority and significantly increase its audience. Here’s why securing news coverage should be a priority:
- Boosts credibility and trust – Media features establish your research as a reliable source.
- Enhances SEO through backlinks – Journalists and news outlets often link to research, strengthening your website’s authority.
- Expands audience reach – A well-promoted study can attract policymakers, industry leaders, and potential investors.
- Supports thought leadership – Consistent media exposure positions you as an expert in your field.
How to Get Maximum Press Coverage for Research
Securing press exposure requires strategic planning. Follow these steps to maximize media pickup and distribution:
1. Select a Newsworthy Research Topic
Before conducting a study, ensure the topic is timely, relevant, and shareable. For example, Buffer’s 'State of Remote Work' study gained widespread attention because it aligned with trending conversations on workplace changes during the pandemic.
Tips for choosing an engaging research topic:
- Identify industry trends and timely issues.
- Research gaps in existing studies.
- Focus on subjects that journalists, businesses, and consumers find valuable.
2. Publish Research on High-Traffic Websites
Instead of posting research only on your website, collaborate with authoritative platforms. Industry influencers or high-traffic blogs can amplify its reach.
Example: Researcher Jeff Bullas published his original study on a popular blog first, generating significant brand awareness and subsequent mentions across the web.
Pro tip: Offer exclusive access to a respected media outlet for an initial feature before widespread distribution.
3. Utilize Email Outreach for Wider Distribution
Send your research findings to:
- Study participants (if applicable)
- Industry influencers and analysts
- Relevant journalists and bloggers
Email Template for Effective Journalist Outreach:
> Subject: Exclusive Insights: [Study Title] Reveals Surprising Findings in [Industry]
>
> Hi [Journalist’s Name],
>
> I recently conducted a study on [topic], uncovering [key insight]. Given your expertise in [journalist’s beat], I’d love to share the findings with you firsthand. Let me know if you’re interested in reviewing a preview.
>
> Best,
> [Your Name]
Personalized emails significantly increase the chances of getting media pitching success.
4. Partner with Influencers to Expand Reach
Influencer partnerships can enhance research visibility by leveraging established audiences.
- Identify influencers with engaged followings in your industry.
- Offer them an exclusive preview or infographic summarizing the key insights.
- Encourage them to share your study via social media, blog posts, or newsletters.
Example: Matt Navarra promoted Metricool’s LinkedIn research by posting key findings in a LinkedIn carousel. This resulted in significant audience engagement and study downloads.
5. Leverage Social Media & Content Distribution Strategies
Social media plays a crucial role in maximizing research promotion. Use these methods:
- Create Twitter threads summarizing key findings.
- Share insights via LinkedIn polls to generate discussions.
- Pin key discoveries to the top of your social media profiles.
- Release an infographic journalists can embed on their sites.
SEO Strategies to Enhance Research Visibility
A well-planned SEO strategy ensures your research ranks highly in search engine results, leading to organic visibility.
1. Optimize Research for Search Engines
- Include target keywords (**press coverage, original research, research promotion**) naturally in headings and throughout the text.
- Write a compelling meta description (e.g., "Learn how to maximize press coverage for your original research with strategic media outreach and influencer-driven content distribution.").
- Internal link to related studies on your website to build topical relevance.
2. Build a Backlink Strategy
Encourage high-authority backlinks to your research by:
- Publishing guest blog posts referencing your study.
- Reaching out to media platforms or research aggregators.
- Promoting your research through relevant trade associations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Promoting Research
To avoid missing media opportunities, steer clear of these mistakes:
❌ Lack of media outreach planning.
❌ Poor journalistic alignment—sending research to unrelated media outlets.
❌ Ignoring influencer engagement.
❌ Not repurposing research findings into multiple content formats (e.g., videos, infographics, webinars).
Conclusion
Promoting original research effectively requires a blend of press coverage, SEO strategy, influencer partnerships, and content distribution tactics. By strategically amplifying your research through media outreach, authoritative publications, and social channels, you can maximize both visibility and impact.
Ready to secure press coverage for your research? Start implementing these strategies today to ensure your findings gain the recognition they deserve.
If you're looking to maximize the impact of your research through thought leadership, influencer partnerships, and an SEO-driven content distribution strategy, we can help tailor a plan that ensures your study gets the recognition it deserves.