How to Pitch Freelance Articles to Print Publications

There's plenty of opportunity for freelancers in the current world of print. Just don't expect to make money right off the bat.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• Standardized pitch letter

Instructions

1. Seek out publications that line up with your interests and knowledge base. Hint: If you don't have published writing samples, known as 'clips', start with less-established publishing outlets.

2. Become well-versed in the publication you hope to be a contributor. Start small, and look for ways to break in. For example, don't pitch a cover story right off - think more about smaller articles that appear in their publication.

3. Read the list of contributors (otherwise known as the 'masthead') and pick someone who's byline or writing credit you are familiar with in the magazine. Remember the top person probably gets a number of solicitations in a day. Someone lesser might be pitched less frequently but still be in a position to offer you work. Then write your pitch letter showing that you are clear about the type of content they accept and that you have a current understanding of the topic matter. For example, if you were pitching to Rolling Stone music magazine, you might suggest CD reviews of upcoming releases. And better yet, submit some examples taking into account their word limits, formatting and overall style.

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 until your opportunity comes. If you are not concerned about money or working hard for it, an opportunity will come for a publication to prove you can write.

5. When the opportunity comes makes sure it is your best work, and doesn't contain errors within your control namely factually inaccuracies, misspellings and other grammar mistakes.

Tips & Warnings

• Shoot low. It is very rare that the first place you pitch, you will be accepted. Your odds are better at a publication you respect that others have yet to find out about.

• Be persistent. Editors remember how difficult it was to break in. They tend to respect someone with great ideas who is persistent over someone with solid clips who acts entitled to contribute to their publication.