Updated for 2027 (UK): A media request is a message from a journalist, editor or producer asking for an expert, a case study, a comment or data for a story they are writing now. Answering the right requests quickly is one of the cheapest ways to get your name into the press. This guide explains where UK media requests are posted, how to choose which to answer, and how to write a reply that gets used.
Where journalists post media requests
- #journorequest on X: UK journalists use this hashtag to ask for sources and case studies.
- Journalist request services: paid platforms such as ResponseSource and Qwoted send requests from journalists to experts by email.
- LinkedIn: many reporters now post requests on their own profiles.
- Direct emails: journalists who already know you will contact you directly. This is the best kind of request, and it comes from being helpful in the past.
How to choose which requests to answer
- Answer only where you are a real expert. A weak answer to the wrong request wastes the journalist’s time and yours.
- Check the deadline first. Many requests close within hours.
- Look at the title. A national newspaper, a respected trade title or a site your buyers read is worth more than ten small blogs.
- Read exactly what is asked: a quote, a case study, data or an interview. Give that, nothing else.
How to write a reply that gets used
- Reply fast. Speed matters more than polish. The first good answers usually win.
- Put the answer first. Two to four short sentences the journalist can copy into the story.
- Add one fact or example that nobody else can give.
- Give your full name, job title, company and website exactly as you want them printed.
- Offer a photo and a phone number in case they need more.
- Do not attach a sales pitch. Journalists ignore replies that read like advertising.
Common mistakes
- Sending the same long press release to every request.
- Answering after the deadline.
- Asking for a link or for the article before it is published.
- Making claims you cannot prove.
When media requests are not enough
Media requests are useful, but they are a lottery: you do not know which replies will be used, or when. If you need coverage on a set date, for a launch, a funding round, a visa application or a crisis, guaranteed placement is more reliable. See our list of publications and press release distribution. United Press, trusted since 2001, was the first PR agency in the UK to guarantee publication, with every publication and date agreed in writing.
Media requests: questions we are asked
What is a media request?
It is a request from a journalist or producer for an expert comment, a case study, data or an interview for a story they are working on.
Where can I find UK media requests?
On X under the hashtag #journorequest, on LinkedIn, and through paid journalist request services such as ResponseSource and Qwoted.
How fast should I reply?
As fast as you can while still giving a useful answer. Many requests close within a few hours.
Will the journalist tell me if my quote is used?
Not always. Set up a Google Alert for your name so you can see when the article goes live.
Can a PR agency guarantee coverage instead?
Yes. United Press offers guaranteed placement, with the publication and date agreed in writing before work starts.