Here’s what every expert response should include:
✉️ Strong subject line
🎣 Opening with a hook
🔎 Providing value
👌 Making it easy
👤 Include contact information
Template for journalist requests
Subject line: Expert comment for your [request topic] feature
Hi [Journalist’s name],
I saw your request and wanted to get in touch to share my insights on [insert topic].
For a bit of context, I am an expert in [your field] with [X years] of experience.
Add your unique angle or little-known insight / quick stats or trends / actionable advice.
If you need anything else or would like a more in-depth comment, just let me know. I’d be happy to expand on any of these points or provide additional insights.
Best,
[Your name]
[Your job title & company]
[Your website]
[Your contact Information]
✉️ Strong subject line
Keep it clear and direct…
Examples
Expert Comment for Your Kitchen Island Feature
Interior Designer Insights for Your Kitchen Trends Article
Home Renovation Expert Available for Comment
Journalists receive hundreds of emails – your subject line should clarify that your email is relevant and helpful to their request.
🎣 Opening with a hook
Get straight to the point.
Hi [Journalist’s Name],
I saw your request and wanted to get in touch to share my insights on [insert topic].
For a bit of context, I am an expert in [your field] with [X years] of experience.
💡 Tip: If you have a direct connection to their topic (e.g., “I recently worked on a kitchen island project with a unique space-saving design”), mention it briefly here to hook them in.
✔️ State your expertise clearly (e.g., “I’m the Lead Interior Designer at XYZ Interiors with 10+ years of experience.”)
✔️ Highlight relevant credentials (e.g., “I’ve designed over 200 kitchens, including high-end bespoke projects.”)
✔️ Mention any media, awards, or unique angles (e.g., “My work has been featured in Homes & Gardens and I recently won the [Design Award Name].”)
Example
My name is Jane Doe, and I’m a kitchen design specialist with over 12 years of experience helping homeowners create stylish and functional spaces. My work has been featured in Architectural Digest, and I’ve designed kitchens for high-profile clients, including celebrity chefs.
🔎 Providing value
Journalists need unique, insightful, and easy-to-quote comments, so keep your points concise, formatted for skimming, and actionable.
Add your unique angle or little-known insight / quick stats or trends / actionable advice.
What journalists want to see:
✅ A unique angle or little-known insight
✅ Quick stats or trends (if relevant or available)
✅ Actionable advice that makes their article stronger
Example
One common mistake homeowners make when designing a kitchen island is not considering workflow. The ‘kitchen triangle’ rule – ensuring the fridge, stove, and sink are within easy reach – is a useful rule of thumb if you’re not sure and ensures your island is as functional as it can be.
According to a recent Houzz study, 78% of homeowners prioritise kitchen islands for extra storage, but many underestimate the importance of legroom and seating height. A minimum overhang of 12 inches ensures comfortable seating without wasting space, giving you the best of both worlds.
💡 Pro tips:
- Use short paragraphs to make insights easy to scan
- Avoid overly technical jargon
- Keep it reader-friendly and relevant to the publication.
- Reply fast. Journalists work on tight deadlines, so send ASAP.
- Stay on topic and keep your response focused.
- Keep it natural and engaging, not robotic or overly formal.
- If there’s no word limit, 300-500 words is a good goal.
👌 Making it easy
End your email in a polite and open-ended way, making it clear you’re happy to provide more details if needed.
If you need anything else or would like a more in-depth comment, just let me know. I’d be happy to expand on any of these points or provide additional insights.
Journalists might need a follow-up quote, so show that you’re responsive and collaborative.
👤 Include contact information
Best,
[Your name]
[Your job title & company]
[Your website]
[Your contact Information]
If relevant, you can attach a headshot, or a link to previous work.
DO NOT attach any other files as these can get filtered into spam folders. If you have multiple images to share, pop a link to a Google Drive folder instead.
What happens if they don’t link?
Sometimes journalists may include you in their article but not link to your website. If that’s the case, a friendly follow-up does no harm.
Subject: Quick follow-up on [article name]
Hi [Journalist’s Name],
I hope you’re well! I just wanted to send a quick note to say thanks for including my insights in your recent piece, [article name] It was great to be part of it!
I noticed there isn’t a link to [your website] in the article. If it’s possible to add one, that would be really appreciated. Here’s the link for reference: [your website]
Of course, I completely understand if this isn’t something you’re able to do, but I thought I’d check just in case. Thanks again for the feature – I really appreciate it!
Best,
[Your name]
[Your job title & company]
[Your website]
[Your contact Information]
Example #1: Garden furniture expert
Subject Line: Expert Comment: Why Curved Garden Furniture is the Must-Have Trend for Summer 2025
Hi Kezia,
I saw your request and wanted to get in touch to share my insights on why curved garden furniture is a huge trend this summer.
For a bit of context, I’m Sophie Harper, Lead Outdoor Living Designer at Harper & Co., with over 10 years of experience in luxury garden design. I specialise in creating outdoor spaces that are both stylish and functional, and my work has been featured in House & Garden and The Telegraph Homes.
Why is curved garden furniture trending?
Curved garden furniture is taking off this summer because it offers a softer, more inviting look compared to the boxy, straight-edged designs we’ve seen in previous years. There’s been a big shift towards organic shapes and biophilic design, where people want their spaces – inside and out – to feel more connected to nature.
Another key reason? Social connection. Curved seating naturally brings people together, creating a more intimate and conversation-friendly setup, which is perfect for outdoor gatherings and entertaining.
What are the benefits?
Aside from looking great, curved furniture is often more comfortable because it follows the body’s natural contours, making it feel more relaxed and ergonomic. The rounded edges also help soften outdoor spaces visually, making gardens feel more welcoming and fluid.
It’s also surprisingly practical – curved designs work well in both small and large gardens, helping to soften corners or break up rigid layouts.
How can you style it?
I love pairing curved furniture with circular outdoor rugs, low coffee tables, and layered soft furnishings like woven throws and textured cushions to enhance that cosy, organic feel. Keeping the palette neutral with pops of colour – like sage green or terracotta – creates a timeless yet modern look.
Will this trend last?
Yes! This isn’t just a fleeting trend. It’s part of a bigger movement towards softer, nature-inspired design. As we continue to embrace curved furniture indoors, it’s only natural that the same shift happens outside. Expect to see more rounded silhouettes, sculptural outdoor seating, and even curved planters in seasons to come.
If you need anything else or would like me to expand on any points, just let me know!
Best,
Sophie Harper
Lead Outdoor Living Designer, Harper & Co.
www.harpercooutdoor.com
Example #2: Addiction expert
Subject Line: Expert Comment: Proven Strategies to Quit Smoking
Hi Liz,
I saw your request and wanted to get in touch to share my insights on the best ways to quit smoking. I’m also happy to jump on a quick call this morning if that works for you.
For a bit of context, I’m Dr. James Whitmore, an addiction specialist with over 15 years of experience in smoking cessation and behavioural therapy.
I’ve helped hundreds of people successfully quit smoking through evidence-based techniques and have contributed to smoking cessation studies featured in The Guardian and BBC Health.
What are the best ways to quit smoking?
Quitting smoking is challenging, but it’s completely achievable with the right approach. The most effective methods combine physical, psychological, and behavioural strategies.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Patches, gums, and lozenges help manage withdrawal symptoms without the harmful toxins in cigarettes. Studies show that using NRT increases the chances of quitting by up to 60%.
- Prescription medications: Medications like varenicline (Champix) and bupropion (Zyban) can reduce cravings by altering how the brain responds to nicotine. These are often available via GPs or smoking cessation clinics.
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Smoking is as much a psychological habit as a physical one. CBT helps break mental associations with smoking, such as reaching for a cigarette during stress.
- Support Groups & Apps: Accountability is key. Free NHS Stop Smoking Services and quit-smoking apps like Smoke Free and Quit Genius provide daily motivation and tracking tools.
- Gradual Reduction vs. Cold Turkey: While some quit successfully overnight, studies suggest that those who reduce gradually over 2-4 weeks before quitting entirely are more likely to succeed long-term.”
Why is smoking on the rise again?
One factor is post-pandemic stress and cost-of-living pressures, which can drive people to smoking as a coping mechanism. Additionally, the rise of social smoking in younger age groups – often due to vaping crossover – has contributed to an increase in cigarette use.
If you’d like to chat this morning, let me know and I’ll be happy to arrange a quick call.
Best,
Dr. James Whitmore
Addiction Specialist & Smoking Cessation Expert
www.quitforgood.co.uk
Example #3: Communication expert
Hello,
I saw your request and wanted to share my insights on how to effectively respond to apologies, whether they feel genuine, insufficient, or require further conversation.
For a bit of context, I’m Dr. Emily Carter, a communication psychologist with over 12 years of experience in conflict resolution and interpersonal dynamics.
I specialise in helping people navigate difficult conversations in both personal and professional relationships, and my insights have been featured in Psychology Today and The Guardian.
Here are some responses tailored to different scenarios:
1. When you accept the apology but want to acknowledge the impact:
“I appreciate your apology. It really means a lot, and I’d love for us to be more mindful of this moving forward.”
Why it works: This validates the apology while reinforcing the importance of avoiding the same issue in the future. It acknowledges the effort the other person made while also setting a healthy boundary.
Delivery tip: Keep a warm, sincere tone and make eye contact to reinforce that you genuinely accept their apology.
2. When the apology doesn’t feel genuine (“Sorry, but…”)
“I hear what you’re saying, but when an apology comes with a ‘but,’ it can feel like an excuse rather than accountability. Can we talk about this more?”
Why it works: This response calls out the issue without escalating the situation. It invites further discussion rather than outright rejecting the apology, which can help shift the conversation toward genuine accountability.
Delivery tip: Keep a neutral but firm tone to avoid making the other person defensive while still holding them accountable.
3. When you’re not ready to accept the apology yet
“I hear your apology, and I need some time to process before I respond fully.”
Why it works: This prevents a forced reconciliation and allows space for your emotions. Not all apologies require immediate acceptance, and this gives you control over the pace of the conversation.
Delivery tip: Keep your tone calm and measured—this isn’t about punishment, but about making sure you process things on your own terms.
4. When the apology is missing something (“I’m sorry you feel that way”)
“I appreciate that you’re acknowledging this, but I think what’s missing is taking responsibility for what happened. Can we talk about that?”
Why it works: This shifts the conversation from passive blame (where the hurt person is made to feel like the issue is their perception) to actual accountability.
Delivery tip: Keep it direct but open-ended to encourage further dialogue.
I’d be happy to provide more responses or discuss this further if needed. Let me know if you’d like to arrange a call!
Best,
Dr. Emily Carter
Communication Psychologist & Conflict Resolution Expert
www.emilycartercommunication.com
