How to Make Your Personal Brand Look Legit to Media (So You Get Featured Like a Pro)

Listen, it’s no secret that media placements are the holy grail for experts and thought leaders. It’s what separates the “been there, done that” from the “still tryna figure it out.” But here’s the tea: if your personal brand doesn’t look legit, don’t expect the media to come knocking on your door anytime soon. No worries, though—I’ve got the secret sauce to making your brand media-worthy.

1. Elevate Your Expertise, Not Just Your Ego

Yeah, I said it. Having a slick website and a fancy LinkedIn bio isn’t enough. The media wants receipts. Showcase your wins like a champ—whether it's awards, case studies, or testimonials from people who have “made it” thanks to your expertise. It’s about proving you’re the real deal, not just another wannabe expert.

Pro Tip: Start publishing your own content. No, not just inspirational quotes. We’re talking high-value blog posts, podcasts, and videos that scream “I’m an authority.” Be the expert they can’t ignore.

2. Master Your Media-Friendly Bio

Newsflash: Journalists and producers don’t have time to read your life story. You need a bio that’s punchy, clear, and drips credibility. Hit them with your top accomplishments and media-friendly tidbits—like any features, publications, or interviews you’ve done.

Your bio should say, “I’m an expert, and I’ve got the buzz to prove it,” not “Here’s my memoir.”

3. Secure ‘As Featured In’ Credibility

You’ve seen it before—those “As Featured In” banners on people’s sites. Guess what? That’s not just a flex; it’s a credibility marker. If you haven’t been featured yet, don’t worry. Start small with niche media or trade publications in your industry. Every feature, no matter the platform, boosts your media resume. Think of it like a snowball—small at first, but it’ll grow.

Pro Tip: Aim for media outlets that cater to your niche. Thought leaders know how to play the long game, so work those trade magazines, industry blogs, and local press like a boss.

4. Pitch Like You Own the Story

It’s time to talk about your pitch game. Spoiler alert: If you’re sending out dry, boring emails to journalists, they’re hitting delete faster than you can say “PR nightmare.” Your pitch needs to be tight, on-trend, and focused on them, not you. What value are you bringing to their readers or viewers? How does your expertise tie into what’s buzzing right now?

Drop the “I want to be famous” vibe and come with “Here’s a story your audience will love.”

5. Leverage Social Proof

If you don’t already have a presence on social media, this is your wake-up call. Social media is your public resume. Journalists and producers love to check out your following, your engagement, and—let’s keep it real—whether you actually have some clout. Post content that backs up your expertise and share your media wins (because if you don’t, who will?).

Pro Tip: Join online expert platforms like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) or Qwoted to get in front of journalists looking for expert sources. It’s like the express lane to getting media features.

6. Make Your Website a Media Magnet

Your website is your digital storefront, so it needs to be on point. No clutter, no chaos—just clean, clear, and credible. Include a media page where you highlight your past features, interviews, and speaking engagements. If you don’t have those yet, highlight the topics you can speak to and why you’re the go-to expert.

Your goal? Make it impossible for media folks to leave your site without thinking, “Wow, I need this person in my next story.”

Ready to Level Up?

Making your personal brand look legit to the media is all about positioning. When you show up as the expert you already are—with the right proof, the right pitch, and the right platform—the media can’t help but notice.

So what are you waiting for? Go claim those headlines. Because the truth is, the media needs experts like you—they just don’t know it yet.

Now, let’s get you featured!