4 Things Every Large Publication Editor is Looking for in a Pitch
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I am a contributing writer for some of the largest websites in the world. Additionally, my words have appeared in places such as Fox News, NBC News, Yahoo, Time, and many other prestigious outlets. I also edit at the Good Men Project. When it comes to exposure in large publications, I know a little bit about this stuff.
Getting exposure in mainstream publications has made all the difference in my business over the last couple of years—I wrote about that last post. It’s exposed what I do to a completely untapped audience. I know that there are many who read my blog that would love to contribute to some of these sites. Here’s what the editors at these sites are looking for.
1. A content producer who produces content regularly.
When an editor visits your website, they want to see someone who regularly puts out good content. I can’t tell you how many websites I’ve checked out of people who were pitching me that hadn’t posted on their own site in ages. Editors don’t want to bring on one-hit wonders. They want people who would be willing to contribute content regularly to the publication—someone who doesn’t do it on their own website is a red flag to an editor. Before you pitch any publication, make sure you are actively putting out content and have been doing so for at least a few months.
2. Someone who knows what they are talking about.
An editor wants to see you are producing content on topics you have some knowledge of. If you are writing about building an online business but haven’t built one that supports you, it doesn’t connect. An editor will look at what you’ve put out on your site, and look at what you put out in other places, to make sure you have some knowledge of your topic. Research can be your best friend in becoming knowledgeable about a topic you’re passionate about.
3. Someone who is willing to put the reader first.
At the end of the day, a reader comes to a publication and reads your articles because they want help. They want to know what’s in it for them. Your article—especially the one you’re pitching—should have clear takeaways. Don’t just make it about your story or what you learned, tell the readers what they can learn from your experience.
4. Someone who doesn’t come off entitled.
One of the worst ways to pitch an editor is with an attitude that you belong in that publication because of some things you may have done—an editor doesn’t care. They are looking for someone who will write, follow the rules, add value to the reader, and not scare readers away with pride. Yes, showcase your experience, but do it in a way that will feel like a benefit for the publication.
I have helped hundreds of people get into publications and most were not clients. You can write an article that gets accepted and gets you in as a regular contributor. You can leverage that exposure to build your dream. You can reach that untapped audience and get some cool opportunities. Here’s to you and your success. See how you’re doing with these four points and make any necessary adjustments.
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Photo: Flickr/ Eugene Kaspersky
