In an effort to connect event managers with female experts and speakers, Founder of Innovation Women Bobbie Carlton is working towards creating more visibility for women in the industry. Carlson, who also owns Lioness Magazine, emphasizes the importance of becoming an expert source for reporters as a direct path to expert or thought leadership status. Expert sources provide commentary, insight, and perspective on various topics without being directly involved in the story, similar to an expert witness in a trial.
To become an expert source, reporters typically reach out to known experts within their network. However, when they need to quickly find new experts, they may search online databases or send out queries to public relations staffers. As a PR person, Carlton often assists reporters in connecting with experts, even if they are not her clients, to establish herself as a helpful resource for journalists. By positioning yourself to be an expert source, you can increase your visibility and credibility within your industry.
To position yourself as an expert source, it is essential to create a target media list of reporters and publications likely to cover topics in your area of expertise. Engage with key reporters on social networks, share and comment on their articles, and offer your expertise when appropriate. Additionally, write commentary on existing articles, share stories on social media with your insights, and respond to articles with letters to the editor to further establish your expertise.
Further strategies to become an expert source include writing op-eds, articles, or books on your chosen topic, as well as becoming a regular on podcasts covering your area of expertise. By following or searching for relevant hashtags and signing up for services that send journalists’ requests, you can stay informed about opportunities to contribute as an expert source. Once you start getting quoted and provide valuable insights, you are likely to receive more opportunities to showcase your knowledge and expertise in various media outlets.
Forbes Business Council is a prestigious growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. To qualify for membership, individuals must meet certain criteria and demonstrate expertise in their field. By becoming a member of such organizations and actively participating in relevant industry events and discussions, individuals can enhance their credibility and visibility as expert sources for reporters seeking commentary and insights on various topics.