❓ The Short Answer
Yes, you can ask for both when you place a publisher order. Add your request to the Special Instructions field, and it is passed along to the publisher with your order. Here is what to expect:
- Special Instructions are requests, not automatic settings. Each publisher runs its own editorial process, so we cannot guarantee that every publisher will follow every instruction exactly.
- Clear, specific wording improves your results. Short, unambiguous instructions are the easiest for publishers to follow.
- Always verify after publishing. Check the live page to confirm the date and the link attribute are what you asked for.
📅 Requesting a Do-Not-Publish-Before Date
If you want a post to go live on or after a certain date, for example to line up with a product launch or campaign, include the date in Special Instructions when you place the order.
For best results:
- Use an unambiguous date format, such as April 15, 2025, rather than 04/05/25.
- State the rule plainly, for example: Do not publish before April 15, 2025. Please hold the post until that date.
- Mention the time zone if timing matters to the hour.
- Place the order early enough that the publisher has time to review and schedule it.
Keep in mind that publishers have different workflows. Some can schedule a post in advance, while others publish as soon as they approve it. If a publisher cannot hold a post, the order may be delayed or the publisher may reach out to you before publishing.
🔗 Requesting rel=sponsored on Your Link
The rel="sponsored" attribute tells search engines that a link is paid or sponsored. Many site owners choose to use it to keep their link profile aligned with search engine guidelines.
To request it, add a line like this to Special Instructions:
- Please add rel="sponsored" to all links to our website.
A few things to know:
- Publishers may have their own link policies. Some already add sponsored or similar labels by default, and others may use a different attribute such as nofollow.
- Different link attributes can affect how much ranking value a link passes. Decide which approach fits your strategy before you order.
- If a specific attribute is essential for your campaign, say so clearly in the instructions so the publisher can tell you if they cannot accommodate it.
✍️ Example Special Instructions
You can combine both requests in one note. For example:
- Do not publish before April 15, 2025. Please hold the post until that date. Add rel="sponsored" to all links pointing to our website.
Keep the note short and avoid mixing in unrelated requests, which can cause important details to be missed.
✅ How to Verify After Publication
Once the order shows as published, take a few minutes to check the result:
- Open the live URL and confirm the publish date is on or after your requested date.
- Find your link on the page.
- Right-click the page and choose View Page Source (or use your browser's inspect tool), then search for your link.
- Confirm the link includes rel="sponsored".
If the date or attribute does not match your instructions, note the order and the URL so you can share the details with our team.
💡 Tips to Avoid Delays and Mismatches
- Put every requirement in Special Instructions at the time of ordering. Changes after the publisher starts work may not be applied.
- Do not rely on a verbal or informal agreement. Written instructions on the order are what the publisher sees.
- Allow extra time if your date is close to the order date.
- Check the live page promptly after publication so any corrections can be requested quickly.
🛠️ What to Do If Instructions Were Not Followed
If a post went live before your requested date, or the link is missing the attribute you asked for, gather the following before reaching out:
- Your order number
- The live URL of the published post
- A copy of the Special Instructions you entered
- A short description of what differs from your request
Our team can review the order and help with next steps, such as requesting an update from the publisher where possible.
💬 Need More Help?
If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type human teammate to be instantly connected with a member of our team.