-
Step 1
Research the writer's markets. Know which magazines want submissions from freelance writers. Look at your own magazines to see if they use freelance writers. There are also several books available that can help you find magazines. Don't forget about websites that list the different magazines that you can query. Of course, there are also online magazines that you can consider.
-
Step 2
Know what the magazines want. Familiarize yourself with your target magazines. Many times the names of the magazines can be misleading, so be sure to know exactly what they are about. Read the articles and learn the style of writing of each publication. Magazines will often list the specifics of the type of material that they are seeking.
-
Step 3
Write your query. Make it short and sweet. The editors who receive the queries have limited time to devote to reading queries from freelance writers. In one short paragraph, explain your experience on the topic and why you are a wonderful writer. Blow your own horn--no one else is going to do it for you. Remember to add you name (and pen name, if you use one), a daytime phone number, your email address and you street address.
-
Step 4
Follow up on your query. Write the magazine editor and ask if she still wants material from freelance writers. This should be done within a few weeks of your original query. Briefly recap your qualifications. Remind the editor that you are still interested in writing for her magazine. Include your contact information so that she will be able to reach you.
