Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

Introduction

Being featured in Forbes is a dream for many entrepreneurs, professionals, and rising stars. The credibility that comes with appearing on the cover of Forbes magazine, being listed on the Forbes 30 under 30, or contributing a Forbes guest post can have a monumental impact on your business and personal brand. However, getting published or featured in Forbes requires a strategic approach. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get published in Forbes, whether it’s writing for Forbes as a contributor, getting featured in an article, or making your mark on the Forbes 30 list.

What Is Forbes?

Forbes is one of the world’s leading business media brands, known for its in-depth reporting on entrepreneurship, finance, leadership, innovation, technology, and lifestyle. Established in 1917, Forbes has evolved into a multimedia platform that includes a magazine, website, and digital platforms. It’s a powerful platform for those who want to establish credibility, attract clients, and build their personal brands.

Why Getting Featured in Forbes Matters

Appearing on the cover of Forbes magazine or getting an article in Forbes can do wonders for your career. First off, it immediately boosts your credibility. 

Just imagine: when clients or investors see your name in a publication as prestigious as Forbes, they’re instantly more likely to trust your expertise. It’s like a golden ticket for visibility. You’ll be in front of an audience that includes potential clients, industry peers, and even investors looking for the next big thing.

But it’s not just about the immediate exposure. Being in Forbes adds to your long-term brand, building up your reputation over time. You’re essentially aligning yourself with success and authority—two things that never go out of style. And let’s not forget the prestige factor. Think about how many people recognize and respect Forbes. That kind of association doesn’t just elevate you; it sets you apart from competitors. The benefits are both tangible and lasting, and the impact on your business? Well, that’s priceless.

How to Get Featured in Forbes

There are multiple ways to get featured in Forbes magazine, from contributing articles to being highlighted in special lists like the Forbes 30 under 30. Here are the best methods:

1. Get Published in Forbes as a Contributor

One of the most common ways to get your work into Forbes is by becoming a Forbes contributor. Contributors write for Forbes on a regular basis, covering specific industries such as technology, business, or leadership. Here’s how to become a Forbes contributor:

• Know the Contributor Guidelines: First, familiarize yourself with the Forbes contributor guidelines. Forbes expects contributors to provide original content with strong insights and value to its readers.
• Pitch the Right Way: When pitching to become a contributor, focus on your unique perspective. Your pitch should demonstrate why you’re an authority in your field and what value you can bring to Forbes’ audience.
• Leverage Connections: If you know any existing Forbes contributors, editors, or industry leaders who have been featured in Forbes, ask for an introduction or recommendation.
• Prepare for Rejection: Forbes is selective, and it may take several attempts before your pitch is accepted. Keep refining your ideas and pitches to increase your chances.

2. Be Featured in a Forbes Article

If writing isn’t your strong suit, you can also get featured in an article written by a Forbes magazine writer. Here’s how to  without becoming a contributor:

• Engage with Journalists: Many Forbes magazine writers and contributors actively seek sources for their stories. Engage with them on social media platforms like Twitter or LinkedIn, or respond to calls for sources through services like HARO (Help A Reporter Out).
• Provide Expertise: When pitching yourself as a source, be sure to highlight your expertise and how your insights align with current business trends.
• Build a Strong Brand: Having an online presence that clearly showcases your expertise is crucial. Journalists often search for industry experts online, so make sure your website and social media profiles reflect your get featured on Forbes knowledge and credibility.

Press Releases: Crafting an engaging press release that highlights why you or your business would make for a compelling Forbes story is another strategy. Ensure your press release speaks directly to Forbes’ audience.

 

3. Get on the Cover of Forbes

Landing on the cover of Forbes magazine is reserved for those who have made a substantial impact in their field. While rare, being on the Forbes cover can elevate your career to the next level. Here’s what it takes:

• Create Impactful Work: Forbes typically features business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who have demonstrated significant achievements. If you’re aiming for the cover, you need a story that is not only newsworthy but groundbreaking.
• Connect with PR Agencies: Professional public relations firms that specialize in securing media placements can significantly increase your chances of getting on the cover of Forbes. They have the relationships and know-how to craft the perfect pitch.
• Be on Top Lists: Appearing on Forbes’ many top lists, such as the Forbes 30 under 30, increases your chances of being noticed for a future cover feature. More on how to get on these lists below.

4. Make the Forbes 30 Under 30 List

The Forbes 30 under 30 is one of Forbes’ most prestigious lists, recognizing young innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders across various industries. To make the Forbes 30 list, follow these steps:

• Nominate Yourself or Be Nominated: Forbes accepts both self-nominations and nominations from others. The application typically opens once a year, and you’ll need to provide detailed information about your career, achievements, and future goals.
• Highlight Innovation: Forbes is looking for individuals who are pushing boundaries in their respective fields. Focus on how your work is innovative and the impact it has had on your industry.
• Show Leadership: The 30 under 30 list is reserved for those demonstrating leadership in their profession or community. Include examples of leadership and influence in your nomination.
• Network with Previous Honorees: Networking with those who have made the Forbes 30 under 30 list in previous years can give you valuable insights into the nomination process.

5. Subscribe to Forbes Magazine and Stay Informed

Staying informed about Forbes’ content is essential if you’re aiming to get featured or published. You can subscribe to Forbes magazine to stay on top of the latest trends, feature stories, and opportunities for contributors. Forbes also offers digital subscriptions, giving you access to its vast archive of business articles and interviews.

Essential Steps to Get Featured

Getting featured in Forbes starts with pinpointing the right section for your niche. If you’re an entrepreneur, look for sections like “Entrepreneurship” or “Leadership.” In finance? There are segments for that too. Once you’ve found the right fit, dive into researching the journalists covering those beats. Take note of their style and recent articles. This prep work helps you tailor a pitch they can’t resist.

Then, it’s all about crafting a compelling story angle. Emphasize what makes your story newsworthy—like a fresh trend, new data, or a unique perspective. Journalists love angles that resonate with current events or industry shifts. The more you can connect your story to a bigger narrative, the better your chances of grabbing their attention.

Building Your Online Presence Before You Pitch

Before pitching to Forbes, you need to establish a strong online presence, starting with a professional LinkedIn profile and active social media accounts. Journalists and editors often look you up, so make sure your LinkedIn reflects your expertise and accomplishments.

Beyond LinkedIn, creating a content foundation on platforms like a personal blog or Medium can add depth to your online presence. This gives you a space to showcase your insights, unique perspectives, and thought leadership in your field. By consistently sharing valuable content, you’ll build credibility, making it easier for journalists to see the value in your pitch.

Establishing this foundation not only boosts your authority but also shows you’re actively engaged in your industry, making you a more appealing feature candidate.

Writing a Winning Pitch

Writing a pitch that grabs attention requires a few essential components. First, a strong subject line is crucial—think of it as the headline that’ll make or break your email’s open rate. It should be concise, intriguing, and relevant. Once they’re hooked, your opening line should immediately highlight the most newsworthy or unique aspect of your story.

Your pitch should also clearly convey your value proposition. Explain why your story is relevant to Forbes readers and what makes it stand out. Be specific and avoid vague language—editors need to know at a glance why your story matters.

Now, common mistakes? Overly long pitches and not personalizing your message are major pitfalls. Avoid the temptation to use generic templates. Instead, research the journalist or editor you’re pitching to and tailor your pitch to their beat. Making it clear that you’ve done your homework shows respect for their time and increases your chances of a positive response.

Writing for Forbes: Insider Tips for Success

Writing for Forbes can be a powerful tool for establishing thought leadership and boosting your credibility. Here’s how to excel as a Forbes contributor:

1. Write with Authority

Forbes readers expect well-researched, insightful articles. When contributing to Forbes, make sure your articles are backed by data, case studies, and expert opinions.

2. Stay on Brand

Forbes has a specific voice that reflects authority, professionalism, and insight. Ensure your content aligns with Forbes’ brand voice, which typically emphasizes entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

3. Leverage SEO

Using keywords like “how to get published in Forbes” or “Forbes guest post” strategically in your articles can help your content rank higher on search engines, attracting more readers and potentially getting noticed by the editorial team.

9-Figure Media: Your Gateway to Getting Featured in Forbes

If you’re an entrepreneur or brand serious about getting featured in Forbes, working with a trusted PR agency can be a game-changer. 9-Figure Media PR Agency specializes in securing guaranteed features in major outlets like Forbes, helping clients build a powerful public presence.

Why Every Entrepreneur Should Choose 9-Figure Media PR Agency

When it comes to elevating your brand’s credibility, 9-Figure Media PR Agency is a clear choice. Here’s why:

1. Guaranteed Placement

Unlike many agencies that might leave you with vague promises, 9-Figure Media guarantees you’ll land features in high-profile outlets like Forbes. This assurance means no guesswork—you can focus on the big picture while they handle the details.

2. Strong Media Connections

9-Figure Media has deep-rooted relationships with top editors and contributors at Forbes. This insider network is critical—it’s not just about getting your story out there; it’s about reaching the right people. When you work with us, you’re connecting with decision-makers who can drive real impact for your brand.

3. Tailored PR Strategy

Your brand isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is 9-Figure Media’s approach. We craft personalized PR campaigns that align with your specific industry, goals, and audience. With an acute understanding of Forbes’ editorial tone, our team builds pitches that resonate, increasing your chances of not just being featured, but being noticed.

4. Comprehensive Media Coverage

While Forbes is a huge win, 9-Figure Media doesn’t stop there. We can also secure placements in other prestigious publications like Business Insider, Bloomberg, and Entrepreneur. This broad coverage builds a multi-layered media presence that boosts your authority and keeps you top of mind across multiple platforms.

5. Expert Storytelling

Getting noticed by Forbes isn’t just about having a story—it’s about having the right story, well told. 9-Figure Media’s team excels in storytelling, shaping narratives that resonate with Forbes’ discerning audience. We ensure your message is not only clear and powerful but also presented in a way that captivates both editors and readers.

When you work with 9-Figure Media, you’re not just investing in PR; you’re investing in a proven system that turns visibility into lasting credibility.

Success Stories with 9-Figure Media

Many entrepreneurs, startups, and established brands have successfully gotten featured on Forbes through 9-Figure Media. Whether it’s through a spotlight article, a Forbes 30 under 30 nomination, or landing on the cover of Forbes magazine, 9-Figure Media’s results speak for themselves.

Working with a PR agency like 9-Figure Media not only saves you time but also boosts your chances of getting featured. Instead of navigating the competitive world of PR on your own, let the experts at 9-Figure Media guide you to success.

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How to Contact Forbes

If you’re serious about getting featured in Forbes, knowing how to contact the editorial staff is essential. Here are a few tips:

• Use the Forbes Contact Page: Forbes provides contact information for editorial inquiries, subscription questions, and advertising opportunities on its website.
• Reach out to Journalists on Social Media: Many Forbes contributors are active on social media, especially Twitter. Engaging with them can help you build a rapport and increase your chances of being featured.
• Email Pitch: Send a concise email pitch directly to Forbes writers or editors, outlining why your story would resonate with their audience.

Conclusion

Getting featured in Forbes magazine or becoming a Forbes contributor is a game-changer for entrepreneurs, professionals, and thought leaders. While the process can be challenging, the rewards—credibility, visibility, and prestige—are well worth the effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of being published or featured in Forbes.

For those looking to fast-track their journey, partnering with a seasoned PR agency like 9-Figure Media can provide the expertise, connections, and strategies you need to secure a guaranteed Forbes feature. Don’t leave your media success to chance—work with the experts who know how to get the job done.