How to Develop Long-Term Relationships With Editors

Finding financial stability as a freelance writer can be challenging, so it helps to develop long-term relationship with the people that matter most: editors. Knowing what the editors like and need is crucial, because it will make or break your chance of getting published.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• File folders
• Filing cabinet

How to Develop Long-Term Relationships With Editors

1. Organize your writing projects. Keep a folder for each magazine project. Create your own guideline sheet for each magazine. For example, note the editor’s name and contact information. Also include any specific information like how the editor prefers attachments.
2. Determine the editor’s style. Is the editor formal or casual? You can determine this from how the editor addresses and signs emails or letters to you. Match the editor’s style but be professional and polite.
3. Keep correspondence and contact brief and limited. It’s ok to ask questions or have concerns, but try to incorporate all of your issues in one email, letter or phone call. Be respectful of the editor’s time and don’t bombard him with emails or phone messages.
4. Respect deadlines or, better yet, turn in your work early. Even a day early will show the editor that you are professional, punctual and reliable.
5. Polish your work. After you have written and edited your work, put it aside for one day then edit it again. It also helps to read your work out loud.
6. Provide photography or illustrations that complement your article. If it has already been decided that the magazine will provide the artwork, there is no harm in suggesting ideas. This will show that you are invested in the piece.

Tips & Warnings

• Editors read many different writers’ works on a daily basis so don’t get frustrated if you don’t develop a relationship immediately.
• The writing world requires time and patience.