How to Get Published in Magazines
If you’re someone who would love to get published both online and in print, then this is the blog post for you. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger ready to take your next step, a student, or just someone who likes to write, I’m going to tell you exactly how you can go about getting your work published and get paid for it too.
All of the information that I’m going to share today has been collected through my own experiences of getting published over the last few years. Everyone’s journey is unique but there should be loads of hints and tips that you can take away with you and use to forge your own path.
Make a list of your ideal publishers
To start off with, do a bit of research and make a list of all the publications that you’d like to write for. Be ambitious - write down those big names that you dream of being published by - but make sure that you research some specialist publications too.
For example, if you’d love to write for the Guardian, then go for it! Write it down. But try and look for those specialist publications that you like to write for too, such as an arts and crafts magazine if that’s one of your speciality areas (there are loads!). Honestly, there’s heaps of publications out there so be imaginative about what you could write, and who you could write for.
Craft your pitch
Now it’s time to craft yourself a winning pitch. Editors tend to be very busy people so make sure it’s to the point, short, and captures their attention.
This bit is slightly obvious, but make sure you address your email to the right person. Do a bit of research and find out who the correct editor is, and spell their name the right way.
Next, write a short and snappy summary of the piece that you would like to write. Why is it important? Why are you the right person to write it? Include this here.
Everyone’s different when it comes to pitching, but there are a few more things you should include. Briefly cover your past experience, including any publications you’ve written for (paid or unpaid), and any other experience that you might have in the publishing world. If you’re pitching a more specialist piece, you might want to include some professional work credits as well so that the editor knows why you’re a good fit.
Steer away from stating your fees in the initial pitch and definitely don’t give the editor a deadline - these things will just rub them up the wrong way and the fee can be discussed at a later date.
Network and expand your professional contacts
One of the most successful avenues that I’ve found for getting published is by networking online, and connecting with editors who work on the magazines that I’m interested in writing for.
It’s honestly not as scary as it sounds. Do some research - it’s usually pretty easy to find out who the editors are for different publications, and see if you can find them on social media. Don’t be too invasive, but equally don’t feel shy about reaching out for a chat. Lots of writers use Twitter and Instagram to network and promote their work and will be happy to hear from you, although I would steer away from any social media that looks private and personal. For example, a private Instagram account or their Facebook profile.
Again, ensure that you follow up if you don’t get a reply, but make sure you’re not spammy. Remember that these are real people and editors have very busy jobs, so leave a break before messaging them again if you don’t get a response after following up.
By connecting with editors in this way, you’ll often be able to get their direct email. I’ve found this to be a lot more effective than sending pitches off into a general inbox, which I very rarely hear back from. Another way to obtain a writer’s direct work email address is by looking at the masthead of print publications. This is usually found on the first few pages of a magazine, and includes a list of all the editors and contributors, often with a contact email next to the name. This is a neat way to figure out what editors to contact and how.
Build a portfolio
I never recommend working for free. However, you will need to build yourself a portfolio of work to show to potential clients. This can include all sorts of things - I often link to my blog, and list the names of publications that have recently commissioned me. If you don’t have one already, it might be worth creating a basic blog that you can use to show off examples of your work.
Another way to build a portfolio is by working for free for small online publications. There are loads of online magazines out there that don’t operate for a profit, and are in need of voluntary contributors. This can be a good option if you’re looking to build your portfolio and don’t yet have any professional credits. I’d recommend writing voluntarily for a limited amount of time, until you’ve generated a decent body of work that you’re proud of and can showcase to potential publishers.
Don’t give up
It might take a while for you to get your first breakthrough but, despite that, I’d advise you to never give up. This is a hard field to work in and getting published is going to take time, but it’ll all be worth it when you secure your first byline. Keep on going, but don’t be afraid to take breaks if you’re feeling burnt out from pitching or a bit disheartened. It’s a natural feeling and it happens to the best of us, just make sure that you revisit it at a later date.
If you’re not having much luck (and yes, it does often come down to luck) then I’d recommend working on building your portfolio and making contacts. Pitching can be an endless task, and it’s not the only productive thing you can do to work towards your goal. You’ve got this!
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