Interested in getting published in new publications? These tips from thought leaders will help you get started.
From websites to apps, anthologies to books, newspapers to magazines and even encyclopedias, someone has to write the words we read. And that’s where freelance writers come in handy. But when you are freelancing, it can become easy to work with the same clients month after month.
I’m here to remind you that there is strength in diversification. When you diversify your client list, you future-proof your work so that market shifts won’t so acutely affect you. And to do that, you need to get your writing published in new publications.
I’ve gathered five tips from five writers on how to break into new markets. Here’s what they had to say:
Craft Pitches With Unique Voice
Breaking into new publications is about finding your unique voice and matching it with the publication’s ethos. I’ve seen the power of authentic storytelling through Superbly Scripted. A compelling pitch isn’t just about the story you want to tell-it’s about understanding what stories the publication needs and delivering them with precision and flair.
– Jessica Neutz, Premium Writer and Digital Content Creator, Superbly Scripted Writing and Design
Pitch Like You’ve Been Published
Pitch like you’ve already been published there. Study the publication’s tone, audience, and recent stories, and craft your pitch to fit seamlessly. Editors want ideas that feel like a perfect fit, not a stretch. Bonus tip? Network with editors on LinkedIn before you pitch. Engage with their posts, share thoughtful comments — it’s a great way to get on their radar without being pushy. When you’re ready to pitch, reference a specific article and explain how your piece builds on it. Editors care more about a sharp idea than your resume, so focus on delivering something they can’t resist.
– Justin Belmont, Founder & CEO, Prose
Start With Niche Publications
As an SEO agency owner and specialist, one of the best ways to break into new publications is by starting small and targeting niche publications in your area of expertise. Instead of aiming for the big names right away, focus on building your credibility by contributing to smaller blogs or online platforms that align with your skills and industry. Once you’ve established a portfolio, you can leverage those published pieces as proof of your expertise when pitching to larger publications.
– Greg Walters, Co-Founder, SEO Modify
Analyze Target Publication’s Style
Start by carefully analyzing the style of the publication you’re targeting.
Then, take time to review the writers in this publication and understand their unique writing styles. Take note of their tone, structure, and the topics they usually cover.
Once you’ve got a good feel for it, tweak your content to give them exactly what they’re looking for.
Besides that, reach out to writers or editors to ask questions and get insights. These chats are a great way to learn more about the publication and what they’re looking for. Over time, work on building genuine connections with them. Strong relationships can go a long way in helping you grow and improve as a writer.
– Zhenya Zerkalenkov, Founder, Travel Content Creators
Sell Attention-Grabbing Ideas
Have an idea and explain it succinctly. In many cases, publications don’t care where else you’ve been published. They have a job to do, and that job is to provide their readers with content they care about. If you can come up with an attention-grabbing idea and “sell it,” you’ll have a much easier time getting accepted.
No need to be super creative or spill your whole professional background. Keep the pitch brief but offer enough detail so the editor/decision-maker can see why your idea is a good fit for them. They can ask for more info if they’re interested, but your first job is to build interest.
– Alli Hill, Founder and Director, Fleurish Freelance
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