Goodbye HARO: Saying Farewell to a PR & SEO Game-Changer

December 9, 2024, marks the end of an era. For many of us in PR and SEO, Help a Reporter Out (HARO), now rebranded as Connectively, has been more than a service—it’s been a gateway to credibility, visibility, and growth. Cision has made the strategic decision to retire HARO, redirecting its focus to the all-encompassing platform, CisionOne. It’s a shift towards innovation, yet it’s bittersweet for those of us who’ve relied on HARO’s simplicity and effectiveness over the years.

A Look Back: HARO's Impact on PR & SEO

Back in 2008, HARO started as a straightforward solution to connect journalists with sources—a simple Facebook group launched by Peter Shankman. Over the years, it grew into a staple for brands, marketers, and experts, ultimately making a name for itself in the SEO world. After its acquisition by Vocus and later Cision, HARO proved that backlinks and mentions weren't just valuable SEO elements; they were badges of credibility and authority.

For anyone who’s ever refreshed their inbox hoping to find the perfect HARO query, the impact of this tool is clear. A response to the right query could mean a coveted spot in major publications and the kind of recognition Google (and audiences) notice. HARO was more than a backlink tool; it was a bridge that connected brands with media in a way that felt accessible and effective.

HARO’s Dual Value: Journalism and SEO

HARO has played a unique role in adding depth to stories by giving journalists quick access to expert opinions, making articles more credible and engaging. In SEO, it proved invaluable for acquiring mentions and backlinks that improved visibility and search engine rankings.

HARO has been more than just a tool; it’s been a key asset in building brands and credibility. It’s hard to imagine a PR and SEO toolkit without it.

Why Is HARO Shutting Down?

Cision is moving towards a unified platform, focusing resources on CisionOne, which will provide a comprehensive solution for media monitoring, analytics, and outreach. This pivot to an integrated platform may be a win for those looking for all-in-one solutions, but for many of us, HARO’s simplicity and singular focus will be missed.

What’s Next?

HARO’s departure is a loss, but it’s not the end of opportunities. Alternatives like ProfNet, SourceBottle, and JournoRequests on Twitter offer similar services, although they may not fill HARO’s shoes entirely. For those of us who mastered HARO’s daily dance, it’s time to adapt and find new ways to connect with media.

A Fond Farewell

HARO might be closing, but the strategies it inspired—proactivity, showcasing expertise, and relationship-building—remain timeless. It’s the end of an era, yet the lessons HARO taught us will shape how we navigate PR and media outreach for years to come.

For more insights and a deep dive into HARO’s legacy, read the full article by Dileep Thekkethil on our website. Stay tuned for more updates on PR and SEO developments that impact the industry.