Become a Forbes Contributor (Best for Experts & Thought Leaders)

Publishing an article on Forbes.com requires a strategic approach since Forbes has different publishing models, including staff writers, contributors, paid councils, and PR-driven features. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how you can get your article published on Forbes.

1. Become a Forbes Contributor.

Forbes has a Contributor Network where industry experts regularly publish articles. Unlike staff writers, contributors are freelancers who provide insightful, expert-level content in their niche.

How to Apply as a Forbes Contributor:

Find openings by searching for “Forbes contributor application” or checking Forbes.com. Browse LinkedIn or Twitter for calls from Forbes editors.

Prepare a strong application. Forbes prefers contributors with expertise in a niche such as finance, entrepreneurship, tech, or leadership. Your application should include a short bio showcasing your credentials, links to previous published work on other reputable sites, a sample article relevant to Forbes’ audience, and a few article ideas that are compelling, unique, and relevant.

Submit your application. You can either apply directly via Forbes if openings exist or reach out to Forbes editors or current contributors via LinkedIn or email.

Wait for approval. If accepted, you will get a contract to contribute on a regular basis. Forbes contributors don’t get paid unless they generate high traffic.

Writing for platforms like Business Insider, Entrepreneur, Inc., or Medium first can increase your chances. Establish authority through LinkedIn posts and personal blogs before applying.

1. Join Forbes Councils.

Forbes Councils is a premium, invite-only membership program for CEOs, executives, and business leaders. Members can publish articles under the Forbes Councils section.

Steps to Join Forbes Councils:

Check eligibility. You must be a senior executive, founder, or industry expert with a successful business.

Apply via Forbes Councils by visiting Forbes.com/councils and submitting an application.

Pay the membership fee, which typically ranges from $1,200 to $5,000 per year.

Submit articles. Once a member, you can submit articles for editorial review.

This option guarantees publishing access and increases personal branding and credibility, but it is expensive and limited to executives and senior professionals.

1. Pitch an Article to Forbes Editors or Journalists.

If you’re not a Forbes contributor, you can pitch an article idea to Forbes editors or journalists.

How to Pitch an Article:

Find the right editor or journalist by identifying a Forbes journalist who covers your industry. Use Twitter or LinkedIn to connect. Check the author’s email, as some contributors list contact info.

Craft a strong pitch with a personalized email that is brief, professional, and engaging. Use a compelling subject line, highlight why your article is relevant to Forbes readers, include a short bio showcasing your authority in the field, and link to sample writing from previous published work.

Follow up politely if you don’t receive a response after seven to ten days.

Ensure your article is exclusive, as Forbes doesn’t accept previously published content. Keep it insightful and data-driven rather than promotional.

1. Get Featured in Forbes via PR or Media Outreach.

Another way to appear in Forbes is through PR agencies or direct networking. Many companies use PR professionals to pitch Forbes journalists.

How to Get Featured Through PR:

Use HARO (Help A Reporter Out) to respond to Forbes writers looking for sources.

Hire a PR firm, as agencies with media connections can pitch your story to Forbes.

Engage on social media by connecting with Forbes contributors, commenting on their work, and building relationships.

This option is best for founders, executives, or professionals looking for mentions in Forbes articles and brands or startups wanting media exposure without writing full articles.

1. Get Quoted in an Existing Forbes Article.

If you can’t publish a full article, getting quoted in a Forbes piece is the next best thing.

How to Get Quoted in Forbes:

Follow Forbes writers on Twitter and LinkedIn, as many journalists seek expert opinions.

Use HARO or Qwoted to respond to journalist requests for expert input.

Offer data or unique insights by providing original research or quotes relevant to their articles.

A Forbes mention boosts credibility, SEO, and branding. Build relationships with Forbes writers for future opportunities.

Final Tips for Success:

Write high-quality content. Forbes values data-driven, insightful articles.

Avoid self-promotion, as Forbes doesn’t allow direct advertisements or PR-heavy content.

Network with Forbes contributors by engaging with them on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Start small by writing for other platforms like Medium, Inc., or Business Insider before pitching Forbes.

The best option depends on your background and goals.

The Contributor Program is best for industry experts and thought leaders. It is free but difficult to get accepted.

Forbes Councils is best for executives, founders, and CEOs. It costs between $1,200 and $5,000 per year but is easy to join.

Guest posting via an editor is best for experts and professionals. It is free but moderately difficult.

PR outreach is best for startups, brands, and business leaders. It requires PR fees and is moderately difficult.

Getting quoted in Forbes is best for professionals and thought leaders. It is free and easy to achieve.

Would you like help drafting a pitch email or article outline?