The PR world is buzzing with the news that Connectively, a trusted platform for connecting PR professionals with journalists, is shutting down on December 9, 2024. For many, it’s the end of an era. For others—like us at Don’t Be A Little Pitch (DBALP)—it’s a chance to innovate, adapt, and redefine the way brands and media come together.

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Before we fully dive into what’s next, it’s important to pause and give Connectively the credit it deserves. Over the years, it became a pivotal platform in the PR industry, enhancing the seamless connections between brands, PR professionals, and journalists. Its impact on how stories were told—and how quickly they could reach the right audience—was transformative.

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At Don’t Be A Little Pitch, we believe that adapting and growing is always a process in marketing. Tools like Connectively laid the foundation for innovation, showing us what’s possible when technology meets creativity. As we bid farewell, we’re grateful for its contributions and excited to carry the torch forward into a future full of opportunities.

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What Was Connectively, and Why Did It Matter?

Connectively pioneered the PR-tech space. It streamlined how PR pros pitched stories and how journalists sourced experts, making it easier to land those coveted media placements. For brands, it meant a quicker path to earned media. For journalists, it provided access to reliable sources without the email deluge.

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Think of Connectively as the matchmaker in the PR world. It was efficient, accessible, and beloved for its simplicity. Over the years, it became a go-to tool for professionals looking to cut through the noise and make impactful connections.

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Why Is Connectively Shutting Down?

While the exact reasons for its closure aren’t publicly detailed, we can speculate that the competitive landscape, rising operational costs, and the constant demand for innovation in tech-heavy industries played a role. In today’s fast-paced world, even the best platforms face challenges in keeping up with ever-evolving user needs.

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The shutdown leaves a gap, but it’s not the end of the story—it’s just a page-turn. And hey, when one door closes, we’ve got a whole window (or at least a LinkedIn connection) waiting to open.

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The Ripple Effect: How It Impacts the PR Industry

• For Journalist - Journalists relied on Connectively to source credible experts and story ideas quickly. Its absence might mean extra work, more inbox clutter, and a heavier reliance on personal networks. Platforms like Qwoted and Featured will likely step up to fill the void, but adapting to new systems will take time.
• For PR Professionals - PR teams may feel the sting of losing a trusted ally in their pitching arsenal. The need for alternative tools—and a stronger emphasis on personal connections—becomes more critical. The shutdown nudges the industry back toward relationship-driven outreach and less cookie-cutter pitching. Spoiler: that’s exactly what DBALP excels at.
• For Brands - Brands might notice delays in media traction as the industry adjusts. But the upside? Savvy marketers who partner with forward-thinking PR agencies (hint, hint) can ride this wave and come out ahead by leaning into smarter, more tailored strategies.

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Alternatives to Connectively: What’s Next?

Don’t fret—there are plenty of fish in the PR platform sea. Some of our favorites include:

• Qwoted: A journalist-friendly platform that’s user-friendly and packed with opportunities.
• SOS Newsletter: Perfect for urgent media needs, this resource is gaining traction fast.
• Featured: Designed for streamlined expert sourcing, it’s great for connecting quickly and effectively.

Additionally, LinkedIn and private databases are becoming increasingly important for targeted PR efforts. And for those of us who think outside the inbox (waves), innovation is already underway.

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A Silver Lining: The Future of PR Is Bright

Here’s the deal – While tools like Connectively made life easier, they didn’t define the industry. Relationships, creativity, and storytelling always have—and always will—be at the heart of great PR. This shake-up might even spark better solutions, including AI-powered tools or more curated networks.

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At Don’t Be A Little Pitch, we’re not just keeping up—we’re leading. We’re exploring ways to craft standout pitches, create buzz-worthy campaigns, and help brands thrive in a changing landscape. And yes, we’re still landing those media placements, one headline at a time.

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Don’t Be a Little Pitch: Why We’re Your PR Partner in Crime

We get it—navigating a post-Connectively world feels like walking into a party after your wingman left. But guess what? DBALP has your back.
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Why Work With Us?

• We Innovate: While others are figuring out what to do next, we’re already two steps ahead.
• We Build Relationships: Forget the generic pitches—we create personalized connections that actually get noticed.
• We Tell Your Story: Our team of PR wizards knows how to craft narratives that make your brand shine.

Whether you’re looking to land top-tier media placements, establish your brand as a thought leader, or simply avoid getting ghosted by journalists, we’re here to make it happen.

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The Big Picture: This Is Your Moment

Change can feel chaotic, but it’s also where growth lives. The shutdown of Connectively is a reminder that nothing in PR—or life—is static. The best brands and agencies thrive by adapting, evolving, and embracing the new.

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At DBALP, we’re not just about navigating change; we’re about owning it. So, if you’re ready to see how disruption can work for you, let’s chat. We promise not to pitch you (okay, maybe just a little).
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The PR industry isn’t slowing down—it’s gearing up. And we’re here to help you do the same. Ready to rethink your PR strategy? Let’s connect. Reach out to Don’t Be A Little Pitch today, and let’s craft a story the world won’t ignore.

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It’s not just PR. It’s your brand’s future—and we can’t wait to make it shine.

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