How To Pitch Your Article to Any Large Publication and Get Published
Where To Start When You Want Your Article Published in a Magazine or on a Website
By publication, I am not necessarily referring to the ones on Medium. However, I’m sure you can use the same methodology for almost any platform, including this one.
The truth is you can showcase your work to many different publications, magazines, and websites — even if you are without connections or have only ever been self-published prior.
Magazines like FamilyFun or websites like Her View From Home will pay you for publishing your submissions! Many-zillions others out there will too!
This is perfect opportunity for freelance writers, bloggers, or anybody who wants to make an income from home to bring in good money for doing what they love.
How does this happen? Where do I begin?
Well many people think you, “get discovered.” As a freelance writer who has been writing for nearly a decade, I can honestly tell you that waiting to get discovered is a poor business model.
The answer is you pitch!
As raw and uncomfortable it may feel at first, the only way to get your work out there is by getting your work out there.
What is pitching?
Pitching can be used in many different contexts. To the business world however, a pitch is just a short presentation. Doesn’t sound that scary now, does it?
Your pitch does not have to be long, boring, or rambling to be effective. In fact, a short presentation that captures interest and attention will do the trick. Think of your pursuit to be published as a fishing trip. Your pitch is your hook.
Where To Start When You Are Ready To Pitch Your Article
Explore the Website
While you are exploring, take notes on the kind of content they are looking for. Some magazines or other large forms of publication will be mainly centered around a specific topic. For example, some like to educate their audience on business and economics while others may target readers interested in home decor.
Another important question to ask yourself when you are exploring any potential place you may be submitting work to, how are they making money? Obviously, magazines offer subscriptions. Some online sites however, may accept your work to be published on their platform and you will be compensated in the form of reaching more people. Or by way of views. Although this is not a bad thing as you may reach more clients and a larger audience interested in your work, be sure to know what to expect in return if they decide to publish your article.
Read Their Community Guidelines
Be sure to read their guidelines for publishing and what they allow to be presented in their community. Every publication may be different on what they allow involving word count, format, and even pictures. Some publications may be sensitive on topics such as politics or religion. Keep in mind that even if your piece follows their guidelines, they can still choose to hold off on publishing or ask you to make edits before further consideration.
Find an Email
Most websites that publishes offer a “submission” page or “contact us” link, or an email in the fine print. Jot this email down or save it in your contact list. This is where you will want to submit your introduction and pitch.
Briefly Introduce Yourself and Share Your Story
At the beginning of your pitch, you may want to send a one page resume and a cover letter. Introduce yourself as a professional. Keep your introduction short; publications are busy and will skim over long paragraphs describing your life history or push the email aside entirely. Highlight your accomplishments, what you can add to their publication, and a link to a portfolio.
Write About Something That Has Worth To Their Community
All publications can recognize fluff a mile away. The more fluffy the article and the more fluffy pitches you send, odds are they will discard your emails, and you will not be published. Instead, write about something that adds value to their audience. For example, if you are pitching to a family oriented publication, an article titled “Ten Fun Places To Enjoy a Family Vacation on a Budget” is informative and would be an enjoyable read to their targeted audience.
Only Send a Portion of Your Article
Sending only a portion of your article will 1)Keep your work safe and 2) Spark attention. Include a captivating introduction and a small section that shows off your voice and the main theme of your article. Make sure you send current contact information so it is easy for their staff to get a hold of you if they are interested in moving forward.
Be Patient and Keep Writing
After you submit your article for review, expect to wait a while. Sometimes the process could be weeks; it all depends on the publication. Sometimes they will email you back asking for further editing or why they rejected your piece. However, you may never even get an explanation. Don’t give up if this happens, because it happens to everyone. Keep writing. It is worth it when you find where your articles thrive!
Conclusion:
Although this article is greatly advice based, I will include helpful links below that really educated me on hidden gems that offer to review submissions and how to go about pitching professionally and with confidence!
References and more information:
12 Sites for Moms That Pay $100+ to Write (Make Money Now as a Stay-at-Home Mom) — Twins Mommy
