Why Your Submission Might Be Refused: Common Reasons Press Houses Reject Stories

Getting published can open doors—whether it’s in a press house, magazine, or TV station. But not every submission makes it past the editor’s desk. Sometimes, rejection has nothing to do with your talent or story idea—it often comes down to avoidable mistakes.

Here are some of the most common reasons why your submission might not be accepted:

1. Unclear or Poor-Quality Photos

If you’re submitting alongside an image—whether it’s for a profile, feature, or press piece—press houses and TV stations expect high-quality visuals. Blurry, dark, or overly edited photos lower the credibility of your story. They want clean, professional images that match their standards. (If you’re unsure how to present yourself, check out our guide on Personal Branding 101 to refine your image before pitching.)

2. Lack of Evidence or Proof

Bold claims without proof rarely get published. If you’re positioning yourself as an expert, back it up with data, references, or examples. Press houses don’t want to risk running stories that could later be challenged, fact-checked, or discredited. If credibility is your challenge, you might want to go the author route—writing a book is one of the most powerful ways to establish authority. Here’s our breakdown on how to Become an Author and build lasting credibility.

3. Digital Footprints That Contradict Your Claims

Your online presence matters. If you’re claiming to be an award-winning marketer but a quick Google search doesn’t back that up, press houses and TV stations will hesitate. They often do basic background checks before featuring someone—they want to avoid profiling people whose digital trail doesn’t support their story.

4. Publishing Other People Alongside Yourself

Sometimes entrepreneurs try to boost credibility by attaching themselves to others in their story. While collaborations can be great, editors may see this as a red flag—especially if you’re placing yourself above others or positioning yourself as more important than the main subject. Instead, aim for genuine partnerships that benefit both sides. For example, we’ve rounded up Top Women-Centric Digital Communities for Press Releases & Partnerships that can amplify your story in an authentic way.

5. Conflict of Interest

If your story feels like an advertisement instead of an informative piece, it might not make the cut. Press houses and TV stations prioritize editorial integrity over self-promotion. Submissions that read like ads or one-sided brag pieces are usually declined.

That said, press releases are welcome—but they fall under paid media, not editorial coverage. The cost of press releases varies depending on the press house, distribution reach, and formatting requirements. If your intention is to promote a product, service, or event directly, a press release is the correct route. If you’re seeking free editorial coverage, the story must add value beyond self-promotion.

6. Not the Right Fit for the Press House or TV Station

Even strong stories get rejected if they don’t align with the audience. A highly technical finance article might not fit in a lifestyle magazine, and a personal memoir might not work in a strictly business-focused TV program. Tailoring your pitch to the right channel increases your chances. (If you’re aiming to reach broadcast audiences, here’s how you can Land TV Interviews and make sure your message hits the right audience.)

7. Weak or Unoriginal Story Angle

Editors sift through countless submissions. If your story doesn’t stand out—or if it feels like something they’ve already covered—it won’t get priority. A unique perspective, fresh data, or a personal twist often makes the difference. If your bigger goal is to attract investors or partners, then standing out isn’t optional—it’s required. Our step-by-step framework on Attracting Investors & Partners to Your Personal Brand in 6 Months or Less shows you how to craft stories that win attention.

8. Mismatched Audience

Even if your submission is strong, it may not be accepted if it doesn’t align with the press house or TV station’s target audience. For example, if a channel is built strictly for women’s voices and a man submits a piece that doesn’t tie into women’s issues, it might be declined. On the other hand, if the same man were to submit to a broader business channel—and frame his angle in a way that provides value to women in leadership or entrepreneurship—it could be accepted.

The lesson? Know the room you’re speaking to. Press houses and TV stations want to protect their audience’s interests, and a misaligned message can feel intrusive rather than impactful.

9. Reputation Risk

Press houses and TV stations are protective of their brand. If you have controversies, ongoing disputes, or questionable associations, they may decline to feature you. Even if your story is strong, they don’t want to risk backlash.

10. Timing

Sometimes, rejection isn’t personal—it’s about timing. If the news cycle is saturated with bigger stories, or if they recently covered a similar topic, your submission might not fit into their schedule.

Final Thoughts

Being rejected doesn’t mean your story isn’t worth telling—it often means you need to refine your approach. Double-check your facts, polish your photos, and make sure your angle aligns with the press house or TV station you’re pitching to. Most importantly, remember that getting featured is a partnership—you’re not just promoting yourself, you’re contributing to their platform and audience.

If you want to boost your chances of being accepted, explore some of our related guides:

• Personal Branding 101

• Land TV Interviews

• Become an Author

• Top Women-Centric Digital Communities for Impactful Press Releases & Partnerships

• Do This to Attract Investors & Partners to Your Personal Brand in 6 Months or Less