How to Get the Most Out of Mediabistro's AvantGuild Membership

Many writers are self-employed, independent people who have to rely on their skills and connections to obtain new assignments. AvantGuild, Mediabistro's yearly membership, can help them refine their skills and build new connections.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet
• An interest in a media career
• Some time to explore the site

1. Think about what kind of writing you like to do and what kinds of projects you want to take on. Then visit the "How to Pitch Articles" section and use the information provided to pitch stories to a few of the magazines you've targeted.
2. Take one of the online or in-person courses and seminar that Mediabistro offers at a discounted rate.
3. Sign up for the Revolving Door email letter and check out who is moving to and leaving all of your favorite publications.
4. Set up a personal homepage and display your clips and writing samples on it.
5. Establish health insurance at a discounted rate if you're a full-time freelance writer.
6. Redeem your WIRED magazine subscription and New York magazine subscription. Also use your Barnes & Noble discount.

Tips & Warnings

• Though Mediabistro itself provides a lot of free content, AvantGuild should be used to display your work and gain insider knowledge into the writing world