FAQ: I Got a Negative Reply from a Journalist - Now What Do I Do?

Sometimes, you may get a negative or a neutral response from a journalist. A neutral response might look something like, “I’m not covering this topic now, but keep in touch for the future,” or “This is the wrong email address; contact me at this one instead.” A negative response might be anything from, “Thanks, but I don’t cover this topic,” to “Just unsubscribe me already.” 

A negative or neutral response doesn’t always mean an end to your relationship with journalists, so you should always be careful how you respond. 

If the journalist isn’t interested, respond graciously and with a “Thank you,” even if you didn’t get what you wanted. Your next story may be exactly what they are looking for. Try again next time and keep in mind any feedback they may have offered. 

If, on the other hand, a journalist asks to be unsubscribed, simply click on the journalist’s name in the list of emails and find the three dots next to the profile picture. 

Click on the three dots and click “Unsubscribe journalist.” The platform will now show a warning if you attempt to add that journalist to any lists or to new pitches. 

Have other questions for engaging with journalists/editors once you get a reply? Feel free to email [e-mail].